Blooming Great Afternoon As Isle Of Wight Garden Heroes Revealed

The results of the annual Wight in Bloom competition, organised by Visit Isle of Wight were revealed yesterday (Thursday) at a ceremony at Albert Cottage in East Cowes.

Wight in Bloom celebrates those in the community who have worked their green fingered magic to provide incredible displays for all to enjoy – including the Island’s millions of visitors.

The ceremony was hosted by Isle of Wight High Sherriff Graham Biss and Visit Isle of Wight chairman David Curtis-Brignell.

Wight in Bloom Patron Alan Titchmarsh was unable to be at the awards in person, but sent a video apologizing for his absence and congratulating everyone on their hard work and effort, calling the Isle of Wight a ‘special treasure’ and praising the work of everyone who makes it ‘even more beautiful than it would otherwise be’ and confirmed his ‘lifelong support’ for Wight in Bloom.

High Sheriff Graham Biss BEM DL, said that Wight in Bloom could only work with the participation of the Island’s community:

"I think Wight in Bloom is so fantastic, we’re bringing all members of our community together and promoting the Island.

"We live in a special place, but the gardens and the natural environment is so important in the fabric of the Island, and it’s fantastic that we’re able to celebrate the excellence which we’re holding in that particular area. 

"I think it is really important that we do celebrate success and we promote everything that is good about the Island."

Winners received a certificate, made from reclaimed wood by the brand ‘By Mrs M’, sponsored by Southern Vectis, and category winners received an RNLI welly planter, in the year that the organisation celebrates 200 years of saving lives at sea.

As well as winning the category of Best Small Tourist Attraction Garden, Farringford Estate was named the overall winner, taking home the Peggy Jarman Trophy, named for Peggy who was an ardent supporter of Wight In Bloom.

The judges said of the garden:

"I am sure Lord Alfred would be most impressed what a beautiful garden. So much planning has gone into this garden by the whole estate team and many volunteers." 

As the winner of the Peggy Jarman Trophy, Farringford also received vouchers to visit local attractions English Heritage’s Osborne and the National Trust’s Mottistone.

Broadlea Primary School, who won the Young Peoples Initiative, also received an extra prize of a class day out, courtesy of the Model Village at Godshill.

Island Riding Centre was named the Best Large Commercial Garden, with judges citing that is was a large area and the team supported ‘the land with rotation, it is fully organic and has habitat creation for moths and other insects.

David Curtis-Brignell MBE, Chairman of Visit Isle of Wight said:

"I am delighted to have been asked to host this year’s Wight in Bloom, recognising the hard work and dedication of the very talented people who have entered this competition – and I would like to thank every single person who helps to make this Island look so fantastic when the flowers are in bloom, bringing a burst of colour to each corner of the Island.

"Congratulations to the worthy winners, whose efforts are outstanding and a special thank you to the judges, who give up their time and lend their expertise to ensure that Wight in Bloom is a great success."