Second day of judging Blaenau Gwent in Bloom and, as is the tradition, we had quite a bit of 'low cloud'. OK ok, it was rain but I'm not made of sugar, so the 'show went on!'
The standards are as high as ever and I am already really impressed with people's dedication and devotion to their gardens. Not only does the climate present a few challenges in the Valleys but most of the gardens we have seen have shown how people 'cope with a slope'.
The schools have been incredible too, not only have large expanses of tarmac been transformed into awesome allotments with raised beds and recycled containers but wonderful wildlife areas have been developed incorporating ingenious creations like Bug Hotels and a Minibeast Mansion. The enthusiasm of the children involved is proof indeed of the benefits that gardening can provide for all ages. Digging has been a unanimous favourite thing to do and photos prove that rain doesn't stop play!
I have already picked up a couple of great tips (which I will share, I propmise) and tasted fabulous fresh veg, although the most persuasive was probably the little boy in the photo on the left who INSISTED I tasted his strawberries.
Lynne Allbutt 13.07.10
