THIS year's Abergavenny In Bloom judging took place in mid July and the town council is pleased to report back that the overall comments were very encouraging, especially the closing comment "watch this space". 

In addition to residents gardens and the Abergavenny In Bloom planting we are pleased to mention Robert Price, Gabb and Co, Judd Bros, Annie's Place, The Angel Hotel, The Art Shop, The Greyhound Vaults, Cibi Walk, Wetherspoons, The Conservative Club and Radstock House whose displays are all particularly lovely this year.

In streets all over Abergavenny there are gardens and spaces that help us feel better about where we live. As well as making a contribution to local prosperity floral displays and well-kept areas also make a huge contribution to people's well-being so the town council would like to thank all those individuals and groups who work behind the scenes to make our town look, and feel cared-for.

Whether its tending a garden, watering planters, collecting litter, clearing dog mess or setting up elaborate displays we're reminded that it's local people who are making the difference day-in and day-out.

 The judge, Mr Trew was impressed by the number and quality of hanging baskets displayed by local businesses and described Linda Vista Gardens as "a little gem of a place".

He noted the mature planting at the Post Office and by the Drill Hall and was very impressed by the local initiative and community involvement he could see around the town through many local projects.

To demonstrate team-work we deviated from the town centre to take in St David's Close where local residents have worked together to create a colourful oasis which he held up as a fine example for the town to build on. As with all inspections there are areas for improvement and these now become the focus of the local group Abergavenny In Bloom, who work tirelessly to ensure that Abergavenny's tubs and baskets are filled, re-filled and tended throughout the year. We are especially grateful for their collective voluntary effort. 

Interest in the work, and support of the group has received a boost with myself, a plant and design enthusiast, joining Mary Ann O'Higgins to spark new interest and encourage greater local participation.

Over the next few months the group will co-ordinate a plan that brings interested people and parties together so we can all contribute to the shared-enjoyment of living in such a pretty town with its spectacular outlook.

If you have an greenhouse sitting idle or if you've got skills and expertise to offer then take another look at  lending some of your time and get involved with local people who have local interests at heart.

If this sounds like you or your group, please get in touch with Marion Pearse on 859455 or ring the Town Clerk Peter Johns for details.