Blooming lovely effort wins praise from judge (From Warrington Guardian)

Blooming lovely effort wins praise from judge

NANTWICH was host to a gardening celebrity as she judged displays and gardens for the Nantwich in Bloom competition.

Margaret Thrower, daughter of the late Percy Thrower, who was the voice and face of gardening programmes nationwide, toured the town's local businesses and voluntary premises, where contenders have pulled out all the stops to make the town look blooming lovely.

Margaret said: "The quality and colourful floral displays this year are an absolute pleasure for all to see, though the standard being so much higher makes judging more difficult.

"I really enjoy my visits to Nantwich each July and have nothing but praise for the effort and investment that the businesses and voluntary sectors make to the appearance of the town."

The Wickstead Arms gained a gold award for its pub front, and Oddfellows Arms and The Leopard came joint top in the 'pub with a beer garden' category.

Nantwich's fire station was the best-looking community venue, Crescent Garage the prettiest commercial premises, and Natwest the most beautiful bank/office.

More than 100,000 summer bedding plants have been used by the council to improve the appearance of the borough by planting flower tubs, hanging baskets and flower beds to impress North West in Bloom judges.

Cllr Penny Butterill, portfolio holder for local environment, said: "Expectations are high after last year's great success and the judges were not let down.

"With the recent sunny weather enhancing colour within the town we can't help but feel confident that the judges left the borough feeling impressed.

"I would like to thank the Nantwich in Bloom Committee particularly and also the other village committees for their tremendous efforts."