Budget restrictions have put a damper on Leominster’s bid for gold in this summer’s prestigious Heart of England in Bloom awards.
Leominster in Bloom’s hard-working team, which has brought home top honours with the town’s array of flowers in recent years, are fearful that this summer’s hopes could wilt and die unless younger volunteers step in to lend a hand.
“To keep our town looking lovely, and to win another gold medal for Leominster we desperately need your help,” urged Leominster in Bloom (LiB) secretary Carolin Lowry.
She explained that budget cuts have now forced the company responsible for watering the town’s blooms to charge for the service.
But the necessary £4,000 to get the job done throughout the season is a step too far for Leominster in Bloom, so members are having to bridge the gap themselves.
“It is vital that the hanging baskets and barrels are watered on a regular basis,” said Carolin.
But she is concerned that this job places a huge burden on LiB, which is largely supported by pensioners.
“All the flowers are in danger of dying,” she said. “But the average age of our members is over 70 and we don’t get any help.”
She continued: “To this end the Leominster in Bloom committee is appealing for volunteers to help man the watering truck which will do the rounds of the town twice a week.”
Both Carolin and LiB chairman Mike Thornhill point out that no heavy work is involved, and that a water bowser is carried on the truck and the blooms watered with the aid of a lance.
“This is very, very serious,” says Carolin. “We have to plant out, get the plants in position and we have to maintain them, but we need young people and we need them now.”
So a desperate plea is going out for much needed help to keep Leominster’s impressive floral displays in the pink.
“To keep our town looking lovely, and to win another gold medal for Leominster we desperately need younger people to help with the practical side of our work,” said Carolin.
Last week three LiB members were photographed by the Journal as they trundled a high tower from Etnam Street to Corn Square to carry out repairs to the town’s famous street banners.
Those able to help Leominster in Bloom can call chairman Mike Thornhill on 01568 614336 or Carolin Lowry on 01568 720157.