Wick flower baskets group chases award
THE group responsible for Wick’s flower baskets is going for gold this year with its second entry to the Scotland in Bloom competition.
Volunteers have been working hard to ensure the judges leave with the best impression possible, said chairwoman Joanna Coghill.
The group is hoping to at least equal, if not better, the silver award the town received last year.
“Last year was our first-ever entry and we were up against lots of towns who had a lot more experience so we were stunned to find out we had won a silver award,” said Mrs Coghill.
“We are busy planting some final touches around the town, hoping that the sun will return to encourage the plants a little more but I have to say they are looking quite good just now, even with this lack of sunshine and heat.” She added: “We are just planning the tour around the town for the judges and have our fingers crossed that we will be blessed with a lovely day so that we can show our judges the town and how blooming lovely it is.”
Judging this year will take place on August 8 with the winners announced on September 12.
The group’s portfolio entry has already been sent to the panel, explained Mrs Coghill.
This year volunteers recorded Wick through the year, mentioning ongoing community projects, such as the completion of the North Baths and local participation in groups like the Wick Christmas Lights Committee, Wick Gala Committee and those from last year’s inclusion, Wick Heritage Centre and the Argyle Square Area Association.
The judging focuses on three main themes – horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community participation.
The cleanliness of the area, the level of graffiti and sustainability issues, such as recycling, are all taken into account and contribute to the entrant achieving either a bronze, silver, silver gilt or gold medal.
The best entry in each category receives a trophy and entrants also compete for special awards in areas such as biodiversity, sustainability and community involvement.
