Oakham in Bloom holds AGM and awards evening

Approximately 40 residents attended the Oakham in Bloom Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, October 9.

Guests at the event included Rutland Lord-Lieutenant Dr Sarah Furness, Rutland High Sheriff Susan Jarron, Oakham Mayor Adam Lowe, Leader of Rutland County Council Coun Oliver Hemsley, Vice Chairman of Rutland County Council Coun Jeff Dale and Colonel James Weir, Patron of Oakham in Bloom.

Craig Howat retired as chairman of Oakham in Bloom while Chris Morten was elected for the ensuing year.

Craig continues as gardening co-ordinator and gave a report of the progress of Oakham in Bloom and explained the group’s new projects.

Col Weir gave a vote of thanks to all who are involved, and wished all the volunteers success for the coming year.

Following the business of the AGM and the election of officers, the results of the East Midland In Bloom Competition were announced.

Presentations of the Community Awards for Best Front Garden, and the Best Small and Large Secret Gardens also took place.

The evening closed with drinks and light refreshments.

Winners included:

- The East Midlands in Bloom Judges Award: Gold to The Wheatsheaf Public House Oakham and Gold to Lands’ End Direct Merchants.

Local awards from Oakham in Bloom went to:

- Small Secret Garden not seen from the highway: Mr and Mrs Strang of 17 Lonsdale Way Oakham;

- Large Secret Garden not seen from the highway: Mr and Mrs Hill of 121 Braunston Road Oakham; and

- Best front garden: Liz Allison of 1 Trent Road Oakham.