Spelthorne strike gold at prestigious awards

6th October 2021

Spelthorne Council’s continued efforts to create a cleaner, greener and more colourful Borough were, once again, recognised as this year’s prestigious South & South East in Bloom Awards.

The Council takes pride in delivering high quality green spaces and rose above competition from hundreds of entrants to achieve four gold awards.

The annual South & South East in Bloom competition is designed to encourage councils, residents and businesses to work together to improve the local environment and make towns and cities a more vibrant place for everyone.

The ever-popular Sunbury Walled Garden struck gold in the Small Park competition. This matches their successes from both 2019 and 2020.The judge commented on the Walled Garden, saying: “My first visit to Sunbury Walled Garden and how impressed I was (by the) amazing, beautiful, very attractive gardens, well maintained to a very high standard.”

Cllr Ian Beardsmore, Chairman of the Environment Committee, said: “The Sunbury Walled Garden is truly one of Spelthorne’s gems and to be awarded gold once again is confirmation of this. As a Council, we are determined to continue working to improve Spelthorne’s environment across the board in order to enrich the lives of our residents. These awards are confirmation that we continue to maintain high standards and I am delighted to see those efforts rewarded with another gold award.”

Sunbury, Ashford and Staines Cemeteries all picked up gold awards in the cemeteries category. The judges noted about Staines cemetery that it is: “a very well laid out cemetery which is maintained to a very high standard, the two gentlemen that maintain the site are clearly very passionate and professional in their approach.” Ashford’s cemetery was praised for its online system, which shows “how graves can be identified and managed.” The judges also commented about Sunbury Cemetery, and said: “the grounds are well maintained, good path ways and a good standard of maintenance throughout during a very difficult year through Covid 19 restrictions.”

Cllr Veena Siva, Deputy Chairwoman of the Neighbourhood Services Committee, said: “Our cemeteries are a place for residents to remember their loved ones and the Council strives to ensure they remain attractive all year round for their benefit. I would like to pay tribute to all those who help maintain our cemeteries and make them a welcoming place to honour those no longer with us.”