Our green-fingered tenants kept the area blooming over the summer months showcasing their colourful creations in this year’s NL in Bloom competition.
This year's awards saw an increased number of entries – self nominated, nominated by housing staff or by people living in the local community.
The winners, individual and communal, were selected from each locality with a few special commendations awarded in recognition of the positive impact many gardens have in their local and surrounding areas.
Tracy Lennon, Tenant Participation Manager, said: “Each year the judging becomes more difficult, and this year was no different. There were so many worthy winners, and the judging team was blown away by the quality of applications and gardens on show.
“Not only did we see some exceptional floral displays, but we also heard stories about how gardens have such a positive impact across communities. Some brightened up local areas and became a focal point for neighbours, while some provided produce and cuttings allowing other gardens to flourish.
“It’s been a pleasure being part of the NL in Bloom competition and I want to thank everyone who was involved. So, whether you submitted your own entry, were nominated or nominated someone yourself, your involvement is appreciated. And thanks to all the area’s top gardeners who bring their garden spaces, whether large or small, to life every year.”
John Duffy, NLF Vice Chair, added: “It was a great pleasure to be able to visit so many amazing gardens throughout North Lanarkshire, the quality was outstanding, well done to all involved.”
And, Jim Dobbie, NLF Executive Committee Member, said: “I was truly blown away with the quality of gardens I got to see within our communities and really enjoyed hearing from the applicants about what their gardens means to them, there are some unbelievable, hidden gems right on our doorstep.”
In a change to the usual format, the judging panel took to the road to see first-hand some of the gardens, before discussing the entries. Shortlisted properties were then visited by representatives from North Lanarkshire Federation of Tenants and Residents (NLF) who made the final decision.
All the winners will now be invited to receive their awards at a special celebration ceremony to take place on 5 October where an overall winner will be chosen. Thanks to everyone who took part.
Winners
Wishaw/Shotts Locality
Communal – Drummond Drive, Retirement Housing, Wishaw
Individual - Elizabeth Grant - Mornay Way
Airdrie/Cumbernauld Locality
Communal – Gartlea Gardens, Retirement Housing
Individual – Tommy Ellis, Hawthorn Drive, Airdrie
Special Commendation - Mary Struthers, Calderbank
Coatbridge/Kilsyth/Northern Corridor
Communal – Westfield Retirement Complex
Individual – Bridie Convey, Huntly Path, Moodiesburn
Special Commendation – Carolyn McDonald, Hamilton Crescent, Coatbridge.
Special Commendation - Julie McDonald - Greenside Street, Coatbridge.
Motherwell/Bellshill Locality
Communal Winner – Airbles Tower, Motherwell
Individual Winner – Mike Duffy - Orbiston Drive, Bellshill
Special Commendation – Scott Kelman, Iona Street, Forgewood.
Special Commendation - Mrs Barr, Martin Place, Newarthill.
Special Commendation - Mr & Mrs Molloy, Melrose Avenue, Holytown
Special Commendation - Archie Ferguson, South View, Bellshill
Special Commendation - Eric Cunningham, Carey Gardens, Cleland
Special Commendation - Janice McGowan, Motherwell
Special Commendation – Gerrard Daly, Morton Street, Motherwell
