Partnership Projects Shine on It's Your Neighbourhood Judging Day

On 24 July, Heywood in Bloom welcomed North West in Bloom judge John Shepley for this year's It's Your Neighbourhood (IYN) judging day.

Chairman Iain Donaldson, Vice Chair Chris England and Treasurer Isla Witherington accompanied the judge as he visited seven inspiring community projects from across the town:

• Heywood in Bloom Community Allotment

• McCulloch & Gleave Funeral Directors

• Trinity Church Community Garden

• Heady Hill Community Garden

• Corcoran Close Community Garden

• Heywood's Secret Garden

• Cherwell Wellbeing Hub

  
  

Each site demonstrated the power of local people working together. From community food growing and wildlife habitats to wellbeing gardens and neighbourhood improvements, every project told its own story through the dedication of its volunteers and the people it serves.

The quality of the portfolios, the enthusiasm of the volunteers and the warm welcome extended at every location made the day a real celebration of community spirit.

Chairman Iain Donaldson said:

"Our partners continue to amaze us with what they achieve. Every site had its own character and every group demonstrated the difference that local people can make when they work together. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who gave their time, energy and enthusiasm, not just for judging day, but throughout the year."

The judging followed the main North West in Bloom visit in June and highlighted another important aspect of Heywood in Bloom's work—supporting and celebrating the organisations, schools, businesses, churches and community groups that are transforming green spaces across the town.

A special thank you also goes to the Heywood in Bloom Committee, whose work behind the scenes helps make these achievements possible. From developing projects and securing funding to supporting volunteers, maintaining governance and building partnerships, the Committee's commitment has helped Heywood in Bloom continue to grow year after year.

Most importantly, Heywood in Bloom is no longer just one organisation. It has become a partnership that brings together communities from across the town with a shared ambition to make Heywood greener, healthier and more welcoming.

The results of both the main competition and the It's Your Neighbourhood awards will be announced at the North West in Bloom Awards in October.

If your community group, school, business or organisation would like to become part of Heywood in Bloom, we would be delighted to hear from you. Every new partner brings fresh ideas, new enthusiasm and new opportunities to help our town continue to flourish.