RHS ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ Award 2015

On the evening of Thursday October 22nd ARCH Chairs Sylvia and Stewart attended the award ceremony of the RHS Britain in Bloom ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ (IYN) scheme. This national campaign is an inclusive, non-competitive scheme that promotes volunteer groups making their neighbourhoods cleaner, greener and safer to live in, all working with the local community for the benefit of the community.

IYN 2015 certificate

IYN 2015 certificate

The activities of ARCH supporters during 2014-15 were assessed by Barry Cruse, the retiring chairman of the ‘Bath in Bloom’ Committee, in terms of Community Participation, Environmental Responsibility and Gardening Achievement (see Assessment Form).

Last year, the first year of our entering the scheme under the ‘Beechen Bees’ banner, we were delighted to gain a level 4 award of ‘Thriving’.

This year, our range of activities and community involvement surpassed all our expectations and resulted in ‘More Beechen Bees’ being awarded the highest level score of ‘Outstanding’.

Our award was presented by the Mayor of Bath, Cllr. Will Sandry, in the relaxed atmosphere of the Restaurant in the Park, where all the Bath participating groups had assembled.

The residents of Bath owe a huge debt of gratitude to Barry Cruse and his wife Carol for their work over the years improving and promoting the beauty and attractiveness of Bath.

For details of the judging criteria and information about other groups and their achievements in this year’s competition, click here: IYN assessment criteria for 2015

 

Open gardens despite the rain

Umbrellas all round

Umbrellas all round

Persistent rain was not enough to dampen the spirits of the determined ‘Open Garden’ visitors who came to see how three residents have recently made their back gardens look so attractive and provide a real welcome for wildlife. Successes and failures, pests and problems were all discussed, yet the over-riding response to having created the gardens was one of immense enjoyment, whether it was weeding, pruning or simply relaxing with a glass or two.

Luckily there was a sizeable awning!

Luckily there was a sizeable awning!

A further Open Garden event may well be organised for later this summer and a ‘plant swap’ event in the autumn and/or next spring is being discussed. If you think you might like to open your garden – remember this is about exchanging ideas and information, not a competition – please get in touch at info@widcombewest.uk

Keep an eye on the website and your email inbox for news!

St Mark’s Summer Barbecue 2015

bbq1bbq2Our summer barbecue was held in the garden of St Mark’s Community Centre, on July 4th. All those who attended must agree this social event was a great success. We were fortunate to have perfect weather and a good turn out of regular residents as well as a few newcomers and visitors. Thanks to all of you who donated raffle prizes, we made £44.00! And thanks to everyone for your help and support in making it a great success.