Date: 06/07/2006
Grateful residents at Milnthorp Homes are reaping the long-term benefits of the annual Buxton in Bloom competition, due to be judged tomorrow (Friday July 14).
Thanks to a dedicated team of year-round volunteers supported by High Peak Borough Council, the front and communal gardens at the alms houses on Macclesfield Road have been transformed into a plant lovers' paradise.
Three years' hard work by the team, led by Buxton in Bloom co-ordinator Councillor Jane McGrother, has created a flourishing haven that offers all-year interest and colour and turns the heads of local people and tourists alike.
"People often stop to have a look and take photographs, they think it's so lovely," said Mrs. Jean Tym, originally from Burbage, who has lived there for 11 years. "I think it is fantastic. The volunteers have done a wonderful job, and I've never seen it looking as beautiful as it does this year."
Added Mrs. Tym's sister and fellow resident Mrs. Kath Jones: "The volunteers do such a lot and really work hard for us. We're all very pleased and think the gardens look marvellous."
Both sisters do their bit to keep the garden tidy too - Jean plants up pots and looks after the patch directly in front of her home, while Kath enjoys weeding and watering the window boxes.
Since the project was launched, volunteers have planted shrubs, trees and herbaceous plants, as well as installing window boxes that are bright with flowering bulbs in spring and blooming with bedding plants in summer and autumn.
This year the regulars have been joined by horticultural tutors and students from the University of Derby and have developed a wild flower area to add extra interest and attract wildlife.
"Over the years we've had lots of help, advice and encouragement from Mel Henley, business manager for parks at High Peak Borough Council," said Jane. "I'm very grateful to everyone who has made the project such a long-term success for both residents and passers-by to enjoy."
Added volunteer Anne Johnson: "I get a lot of pleasure out of gardening, so it's very rewarding to be involved. It's also lovely to talk to the residents, who bring us drinks, take an interest and are very appreciative of our efforts."
Competition categories included in Buxton in Bloom, supported by the Buxton Advertiser, are best home front, best hanging basket, best pub, best kept street and best business. Winners of East Midlands in Bloom, which includes Buxton, will be announced on Wednesday September 13 at De Montfort Hall, Leicester.