COPELAND Council has announced the winner of its first Best Kept Garden competition.
Linda and David Park, of Bigrigg, impressed judges with their colourful planting, flawless lawn and healthy greenery.
Copeland’s Elected Mayor, Mike Starkie, visited Linda and David’s garden to see the fruits of their labour for himself. He said: “It is an incredibly well-kept garden, and a total credit to them both. They obviously take a real pride in it. I’m delighted for them and hope they enjoy many sunny days there this summer.”
Linda and David were nominated by their family and had no idea until the council got in touch. They have won a £50 gift voucher for Whitehaven Garden Centre, courtesy of Copeland Borough Council and Whitehaven Garden Centre.
There were 21 entries from all over the borough, and every one of them was impressive – from makeover projects to well-established gardens, there was a real variety of horticultural environments.
The panel of judges, headed by Copeland’s Open Spaces Manager James Hunter, said of the winning garden: “This garden was amazing. It had a well-presented lawn, a good mix of hard and soft landscaping, and great presentation at varying levels. There was a contrast of colours, with the hard landscaping setting off the plants and lawn – very well kept!”
Although only the overall winner received a prize, the council wanted to highlight two runners-up, who had also created exceptional green spaces.
Joanne Eilbeck’s garden in Bigrigg was praised for: “A good mix of planting structure, providing a variety of shapes throughout. Added interest came from features including a hosta collection and a meandering path. It was good to see the inclusion of vegetable growing, and there was a variety of uses of garden spaces and planting.”
In third place was Dianne Richardson’s garden in Hensingham, Whitehaven. The judges said: “It leaves you wanting to see more. There is a good use of plants, filling spaces at differing levels and framed by stone wall. It shows a place to grow, relax and enjoy.”
The Council held the Best Kept Garden competition as part of its Copeland Pride of Place campaign. The campaign has been key to the borough’s significant reduction in fly-tipping and littering over the past two years, and in celebrating residents who take pride in their environment.
Mayor Starkie added: “All the competitors were exceptional and it’s this kind of effort and pride that makes Copeland such a great place to live.”
