We are thrilled to share some fantastic news with our community! Purley in Bloom has been awarded the prestigious Gold Award at the London in Bloom 2024 competition. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our volunteers and supporters. We are incredibly proud of this recognition and the positive impact it has on our beloved town.
A Heartfelt Congratulations from Our Local MP
We were honored to receive a congratulatory letter from Chris Philp MP, Member of Parliament for Croydon South. In his letter, Chris Philp expressed his delight at our success and acknowledged the visible changes and improvements we have made in Purley. He highlighted the hard work of our volunteers who meet regularly to enhance our local community and provide a sense of belonging. His kind words are a wonderful recognition of the efforts of everyone involved in Purley in Bloom.
The Journey to Gold: A Summary of Our Achievements
Our journey to achieving the Gold Award has been filled with dedication and community spirit. Here are some highlights from our portfolio and the judging results:
Judging Results
Horticulture (40%): Our efforts in horticulture were highly praised. The judges noted the well-maintained and colorful displays at various locations, including the Christchurch, Rotary Field, and Purley War Memorial Hospital. The use of a variety of plants, including perennials and annuals, has brightened up historically neglected areas. The judges appreciated our innovative approach, such as rescuing plants from supermarkets and using them to create beautiful displays.
Environment (30%): The cleanliness and management of our areas were commended. The judges noted the absence of litter and graffiti, and the well-maintained bins. Our collaboration with local businesses and organizations, such as TfL and SES Water, has been instrumental in improving the environment. The painted blue background with flowers design and the installation of planters have transformed previously bland areas into vibrant spaces.
Community (30%): The judges were impressed by the strong sense of community fostered by Purley in Bloom. The involvement of local residents, businesses, and schools has been crucial to our success. The Rotary Field, in particular, has become a hub for community activities, with volunteers working tirelessly to maintain and improve the park. The judges also noted the positive impact of our social media presence and the support we receive from the local community.
Portfolio Highlights
Team Effort: Our team meets every Saturday morning for working sessions, followed by refreshments and lively discussions. Specific roles and responsibilities are assigned, including project manager, school liaison, treasurer, social media posters, and business liaison. This structured approach has been key to our success.
Community Engagement: We have strengthened our relationship with Croydon Council, which has provided significant support, including mulch for beds and planters, and the donation of wooden planters. Our collaboration with TfL has also been fruitful, with additional plants being added to the gyratory area.
Environmental Initiatives: We have implemented several environmental features, such as a bug hotel, leaf pen, and self-watering planters. These initiatives not only enhance the beauty of our town but also promote sustainability and biodiversity.
Recognition and Support: Our efforts have been recognized by various stakeholders, including the Mayor of Croydon, who has praised the positive impact of Purley in Bloom. We have also received support from local businesses, which have sponsored planters and provided funding for our projects.
Join Us and Make a Difference!
We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved, but our work is far from over. We are always looking for new members to join our team and help us continue to make Purley a beautiful and vibrant place to live. Whether you have a green thumb or simply want to contribute to your community, we welcome you to get in touch and become a part of Purley in Bloom.
Together, we can achieve even greater things and ensure that Purley continues to bloom and thrive. Contact us today to find out how you can get involved and make a difference in our community.
Thank you for your continued support!