Strong winds may have veered volunteers away from Barnoldswick in Bloom’s mass planting on Saturday, but organisers are hoping that July’s judges will be equally blown away by the kaleidoscope of colour across the town.
Friday’s rain failed to dampen the spirits of many who turned out to help with planting the thousands of flowers but much more is required to brighten up all areas.
After securing the newcomer award in the Britain in Bloom competition last year, the Barnoldswick in Bloom Group are hoping to go one better in 2012 and win the best in the North West.
Primarily, however, it is about making the town look more attractive, but winning the top prize would be the “icing on the cake”.
Barnoldswick in Bloom volunteer Coun. David Whipp said: “A small number of hardy individuals braved the elements to help plant the thousands of flowers we have to brighten up Barnoldswick.
“Two areas were planted on Fernlea Avenue; outside the library and across the road, but the bad weather put most people off from helping. It seems bloom volunteers were blown away by the strong winds. We still have thousands of flowers to plant out and it’s now a race against time to get them in and established before the judges visit on July 30th.
“We’re holding more Community Action Days this coming weekend (Saturday, June 30th, and Sunday, July 1st) and are also appealing for anyone who has spare time during the week to help with the planting.”
Bloom volunteers also constructed two new raised beds for wheelchair bound gardeners at the Rainhall Centre, as well as planting out summer bedding.
On top of the 4,000 plants grown by the bloom group and local schoolchildren, Pendle Council has donated some from their surplus supply, and organisers are calling for more volunteers of all ages to help create even more colour around the town.
Barnoldswick in Bloom is having a bring and buy plant stall at the Rainhall Centre’s monthly market tomorrow.
People can volunteer at the stall, contact David Whipp on 666777, or email david.whipp@dsl.pipex.com.