During July, volunteers from Edwinstowe in Bloom (EiB) worked long hours, particularly using the bowser to keep the beds and allotment watered during the recent hot, dry spell. Everyone made a tremendous effort to prepare for the judges’ visit. Planters have been placed around the village, and the wildflower meadow is progressing well. Even some volunteers’ children pitched in, helping to tidy several of the beds. The bug hotel has received a full renovation and is now open for new insect residents. At the allotment, fencing has been completed and painted, gates installed and tested to ensure wheelchair accessibility. Fresh produce donations to the food hub included the last of the broad beans, the first of the potatoes, and, with courgettes nearly ready, further harvests are expected within the week. More bunches of flowers, lettuces, radishes and assorted vegetables were also delivered throughout the month.
The East Midlands in Bloom judges visited on Wednesday 2nd July. They arrived at approximately 2.00pm and were welcomed at the village Community Cricket Club by the EiB team. The judges were then escorted to the allotment and around the village to view the work completed by volunteers and local groups. At each site, they were greeted by the individuals or groups responsible. A highlight of the visit included meeting ‘Cliff the miner’ at Linda’s Meadow. The visit concluded with a BBQ and refreshments back at the Cricket Club, offering a relaxed opportunity for the judges to meet and talk with more volunteers and supporters. It was a very positive visit, and the outcome is now awaited in September. The team extends heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in creating such a successful and enjoyable event.
In the monthly photography competition, the winning entry for June was a beautiful image of Linda’s Meadow by Carol Hallam. For the August competition, entries are welcomed featuring anything of interest taken in the Edwinstowe area – not limited to flowers or landscapes. Photographs of events, animals or anything that reflects the spirit of Edwinstowe are encouraged. Amateur photographers aged 16 and over are invited to submit entries by midnight on the last day of each month. Images should be in .jpg format and sent via email, along with a title and the location where the photo was taken. For more information, contact eib@btinternet.com or search ‘Edwinstowe in Bloom’ on Facebook.