Green-fingered residents recognised in Uttlesford Council garden competition

Julie Bruty (Image: Archant)

This year’s contest was hailed a “fantastic success” and prizes were handed out by cabinet member for housing, Councillor Julie Redfern.

She said: “I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the winning gardens. They all looked lovely. These gardens really are a credit to our tenants, who clearly enjoy creating them. Well done to all the winners.”

Great Dunmow had two winners – Darren Stolworthy, of Newton Green, was crowned the victor in the best garden category, while Wynn Jones, of Alan Hasler House, collected the award for best hanging basket, tub or pot.

Mr Stolworthy, whose garden was described by the judges as “a picture of colour and variety”, said: “Everybody should have a garden, big or small, there is so much you can do with it. Thank you.”

Wrynn Jones (Image: Archant)

His prize was an olive tree.

Mr Jones, who won a white standard rose bush, said: “It’s the domain of everybody, a garden is something you can enjoy physically or appreciate visually. Don’t let your mind be your boundary.”

Other victors were Julie Bruty, of The Close, Hatfield Heath, who won the tallest sunflower category, and Barry Richardson, from Newcroft, Saffron Walden, who collected the award for the best wildlife-friendly garden.

He was presented with a pear tree and an apple tree, while Julie won a clematis and a passion flower.

The judge was Steve King, the council’s grounds maintenance supervisor, who was accompanied by Nicole Shephard-Lewis, tenant participation officer.

Mr King said: “Every year, the gardens impress me. They always look beautiful and it is clear that the owners take great pride and work hard.

“I was amazed at those gardeners who made use of old disused items; they were so creative with minimal cost. I very much enjoyed the time we spent judging the competition and I congratulate the very worthy winners.”