The incredible efforts of the community were rewarded earlier this week, as Abergavenny walked away with the Discretionary Award for Sustainable Gardening in the nationwide competition, Britain in Bloom.   

On Monday, October 23, representatives from a range of community groups in Abergavenny made their way to London for the prestigious Britain in Bloom Awards, set at Lindley Hall in Westminster. The evening also marked Abergavenny’s first time as finalists in the horticultural competition.

Britain in Bloom works to inspire community groups in towns, cities and villages to make positive changes to their local environment through horticultural, environmental and community action.

Over the last year, groups and organisations from across Abergavenny have been working tirelessly to make the town look its very best, whilst also being environmentally sustainable. 

Abergavenny were recognised for their exceptional programmes. This included a Citizen Science project, which was carried out by volunteers and school children. Together, they monitored pollinator biodiversity, which resulted in rare orchids and a black oil beetle being recorded. 

Additionally, moisture sensors have been fitted in beds and planters around the town centre, to detect when plants need water and/or other nutrients to ensure their growth. The information regarding the water time can be accessed online, meaning that no water will be wasted and volunteers will know exactly when to supply water.

Lastly, water butts are being installed to pilot rainwater collection, which will further aid the watering of planters. 

As well as the Discretionary Award, Abergavenny proudly received a Gold Award for the third consecutive year, in an extraordinary achievement. 

A spokesperson from Abergavenny In Bloom said: “This will mean so much not just to the community volunteers who give so much, but to the wider town as we work towards hosting Wales in Bloom Awards in September next year.”

Abergavenny Town Council further expressed their delight in the accomplishment via social media, adding: “We couldn’t be prouder of the results... lets continue to grow and flourish together, making Abergavenny an even more beautiful and vibrant place to call home.”