Rawtenstall rolled out the green carpet for RHS judges on Monday, July 27, as the town vied for top honours in the Britain in Bloom North West competition. Despite a prolonged dry spell and unavoidable town centre disruptions, volunteers, council teams, and community groups pulled together to present the borough in its finest floral glory.
Months of Hard Work Culminate in Judging Day
The judging day marked the climax of intensive efforts by the Civic Pride Volunteers (CPR), Rossendale Borough Council, and numerous local organisations. Alongside the main competition, individual gardens were also assessed for the "It's Your Neighbourhood" award. Lynn Smith, Chair of CPR, acknowledged the challenges: "We have had very challenging conditions, with no rain for the last few weeks, and unavoidable disruptions to the town, all really added to the pressure trying to make Rawtenstall look its best. I really want to thank everyone who has been involved in making such an effort, and by pulling together as a team, we have been able to make Rawtenstall look stunning."
CPR's gardening teams were relentless, weeding, deadheading, trimming, and introducing a mix of perennial and annual plants. Hanging baskets and planters overflowed with vibrant blooms, kept alive by the dedicated watering team that worked around the clock during the dry spell.
Community Creativity Takes Centre Stage
Adding to the visual appeal, community groups and schools crafted sculptures displayed at the railway station, while local shops decorated their windows to support the overarching theme of "Rawtenstall, Regeneration and Rewilding."
The judges, Stephen Lowe from Accrington—a BBC Radio presenter and seasoned judge—and Severine Cochard from Manchester, a garden designer and botanist, were greeted at East Lancashire Railway station by Lynn Smith and CPR's operational committee. They then viewed the sculptures and painted rocks created by St James the Less and Belmont School, alongside contributions from various community groups. Publicity Officer Janet Allcock guided the judges through each exhibit, explaining the theme's details. She noted that "the exhibits certainly brought a smile to the judges' faces and they seemed thrilled with the effort everyone had made."
Gardens and Green Spaces Impress
From the station, the judges were led by Jan Czugalinski, CPR's Research and Development Officer, to the Three Pines bed, a garden he has cultivated near the station. They admired its diverse planting and blooms.
The route continued to Sparrow Park and Library Gardens, a Green Flag Award-winning site maintained by volunteers Susan and Allen White, with support from Rossendale Borough Council's Green Spaces team. There, the judges met representatives from local organisations using the park. The park features a rockery, a garden supporting the Rossendale Rotary Association, a flowerbed backed by the Rossendale Remembrance Parade Association, and a small bed tended by Rosie, a young girl who helps with watering during her regular visits.
Next, the judges visited the tranquil Old Fold Garden, maintained by a small group of CPR volunteers, and appreciated its mature, natural feel. They then met Ian McChesney, who single-handedly created and maintains the central reservation along St Mary's Way, a popular spot for motorists.
Business and Community Support Shines
Window displays along Bank Street showcased local businesses' interpretations of the theme. Previously assessed by two independent judges, the winner, Tufties, was announced and presented with a special prize donated by Rachel Geelan, founder of Nutritional Beauty in Rawtenstall. Vicky, the owner of Tufties, received the floral display.
Brief meetings were held with Jan Shutt, owner of Sunday Best and founder of CPR 26 years ago, and representatives of Caseys, the contractors for the Market and Bank Street project, who shared plans for the town and assured their commitment to the community.
Youth and Final Gardens Leave Lasting Impression
After lunch, judging continued at the embankment garden along St Mary's Way. Rossendale Youth Zone impressed with unique displays interpreting the theme, a beautiful garden, homemade cake, and heartfelt poems that left everyone visibly moved.
The final garden, located along the inbound lay-by, offered a stunning space for reflection. The judges were overwhelmingly positive throughout the day, though results won't be revealed until the awards ceremony in November.
