Britain in Bloom

First fruit of a new partnership between the BBC and the Royal Horticultural Society, which runs the national civic gardening competition, alongside major national shows like Chelsea and Chatsworth Flower Show.

When the documentary makers were looking for hardworking, innovative and diverse teams to film for their documentary about the 2017 Britain in Bloom competition, they made a beeline for Lytham’s blooming team.

Lytham in BloomLytham in Bloom Project for Lytham Festival Hub

With a track record of success not just in winning awards but in developing community projects, brightening the coastal town and enriching the lives of the community – often without many people realising they’re behind the gorgeous public garden spaces.

Chairman Carol Wildon

“Lytham in Bloom is run entirely by volunteers, It really is a labour of love.

In 2017 the team spent more than 20,000 hours working to make Lytham the most beautiful town it can be. We planted more than 25,000 plants, across 25 different projects in the community – from school projects to more formal gardens like Lytham Memorial Garden, to wildlife spaces like Lytham Station Community Wild life Garden together with the siting of approximately 50 bird & bat boxes in Lowther Gardens, Robin & Sparrow Parks. We do everything from fundraising to project planning; creating and maintaining lovely public garden areas for everyone to enjoy.”

Filming

The BBC cameras followed the Lytham in Bloom team across six months last year as they planned and brought to life their programme for the 2017 campaign, which saw them win a Gold Medal for Small Coastal Resort in the prestigious North West Regional Finals.

Trevor Mackey, volunteer said

“It was a little bit odd at first, to turn around and find a camera recording your every move, but you soon get used to it – and there’s always so much to do. We did sometimes get some funny looks from passers-by when they noticed the camera crew filming us man handling the Green Man into place.

While the filming was fun to take part in, it was more about showing people how much hard work goes into making sure Lytham remains as beautiful as it is – as well as highlighting just how rewarding volunteering for Lytham in Bloom can be. It’s a real honour to have won Gold in last year’s competition, and it’s good fun to be involved in the BBC’s documentary, but really, everyone who gets involved does it for quality of life: there’s a great team spirit, we’re creating wonderful green spaces around this lovely town, we’re all out getting exercise in the fresh air – and best of all we’re making Lytham a more uplifting place for everyone, visitors and locals alike.”

lytham in bloom market square

 

More good news

The Royal Horticultural Society have invited the Lytham in Bloom team to compete in the National competition for 2018 – so the stakes are even higher, as the team are now wellies deep in their biggest year yet.

Last words from Carol

“2018 is already shaping up to be a very busy year for Lytham in Bloom. We’re always in need of more volunteers. You don’t need green fingers – or hours and hours of free time. We welcome all ages and all you need to bring along is enthusiasm and an ability to get stuck in! And as we rely on raising all our funds ourselves, if you’re a local business who would like to get involved – don’t hesitate to get in touch!”

Britain in Bloom will be shown daily on BBC2 at 18.30 from Monday 16th April. 15 different communities are included in the programme which runs for two weeks and is presented by Chris Bavin.

Lytham in Bloom team were  featured in the show on Monday 23rd find it on BBC iPlayer.

Contacts/Info

For Media Enquiries: David Kerr, 07801816462 davidakerr28@gmail.com

Volunteering Enquiries: Trevor Mackey 01253 735700 wtmackey65@gmail.com

Sponsorship Enquiries: Susan Evans 01253 738257 mews.cottage@hotmail.com

More about Lytham in Bloom: lythaminbloom.com

Get involved with Britain in Bloom rhs.org.uk/get-involved/britain-in-bloom