Bacup Pride hosted Royal Horticultural Society judges for the Britain in Bloom competition on Saturday July 18, demonstrating the town's dedication to green spaces and community spirit. The group, which achieved a Silver Gilt two years ago and a Gold last year, aimed to build on its successes.
Judges Tour Bacup
RHS judges Tracey Broome and Richard Heys spent six hours touring the town centre and community projects. They visited Stubbylee Park, allotments, and enjoyed lunch at 1832 Barista. Judge Richard Heys said: "I had never been to Bacup before, but I had heard of it. This is a place I could comfortably come and visit again. I miss being part of a community."
Volunteer Stories
Young volunteer Jan Kniveton, 15, joined for his Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award but continued volunteering. He said: "I have volunteered for about six months and I carried on because I want to give something back to the community. When I clean up an area, I feel satisfied and when I stand back and look at the difference, I get a little bit of satisfaction."
Long-term volunteer Susan Kepler shared how the group helped her after her husband Karl passed away last April. She said: "Without this, and my grandson, I would have been pulling my hair out. I still have really bad days, but we were together for 45 years. I do Pride on a Tuesday and Thursday and Sundays and it has kept me going; it may only be planting and picking but it is hard graft."
Community Support
The group also welcomed new volunteer Steven Manning, who joined just one week before the judges' visit. Chair Pat Smith said: "It has been a pleasure to show people round Bacup who have never visited this area before. They have taken a great interest in everything that we do and met all of our volunteers."
The results of the competition will be announced later this year. Those interested in volunteering can email patsmith9698@yahoo.co.uk or message the Bacup Pride Facebook page.
