Following years of hard work by volunteers, the Cranleigh in Bloom team has been selected to represent the region at the finals of RHS Britain in Bloom 2019.

The official announcement today from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) confirmed that Cranleigh will be representing the South East of England in the Town category of the national competition.

Martin Bamford, chairman of Cranleigh in Bloom, said the hard work and dedication of volunteers has given Cranleigh an incredible opportunity to bring national attention to the village.

Bamford said:

“I’m over the moon at this news which recognises the hard work of the Cranleigh in Bloom committee, volunteers, sponsors and supporters. For Cranleigh to be recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society as representatives of the South East in this national competition is such a massive accolade.

“I’m very grateful to the South & South East in Bloom committee for nominating Cranleigh in Bloom for the national finals this year. The RHS Britain in Bloom competition has a long and illustrious history of helping unite communities behind the In Bloom banner which undoubtedly invigorates areas, in turn boosting the local economy.”

It’s the first time Cranleigh has reached the finals of RHS Britain in Bloom, following three successful entries in the regional South & South East in Bloom Awards. Last year, Cranleigh received its second gold award at this regional competition.

The Rt Hon Anne Milton, MP for Guildford, said:

“Cranleigh is a brilliant example of a positive difference volunteers can make in their local community. Reaching the finals of RHS Britain in Bloom is a really special achievement for Cranleigh. I know many more visitors will want to visit the thriving Cranleigh High Street to enjoy the always beautiful floral displays.”

Other finalists in the Town Category of RHS Britain in Bloom 2019 are Amersham (Thames & Chilterns), Antrim (Ulster), Haddington (Keep Scotland Beautiful), Halstead (Anglia), Morpeth (Northumbria), Newport (Heart of England), Wimborne (South) and Ystradgynlais (Wales).

The UK Finalist marking criteria has been updated for 2019 to reflect the increasing importance of community involvement and environmental stewardship. From this year, 40 per cent of all marks will be awarded to efforts in horticulture, with 30 per cent each devoted to community and environment, instead of the previous split of 50, 25 and 25.

The RHS Britain in Bloom judges will visit each of the finalists in August with the winners of each category announced at an awards ceremony in the autumn.

Cranleigh in Bloom is a voluntary community organisation with the goal of promoting civic pride, encouraging people to get involved in their community and bringing together various groups of people.

You can find out more at cranleighinbloom.net.