ARDS CELEBRATES DOUBLE WIN AT ULSTER IN BLOOM

Ards is celebrating a double win at this year's Ulster In Bloom competition, scooping awards for both Newtownards and Portaferry.

The horticultural talents of the local Portaferry In Bloom Committee saw the village take 3rd place in the large village category, behind Hillsborough and Broughshane, while Newtownards also took a bronze position for the planters, baskets and floral displays in the town centre.

Mayor of Ards, Councillor Mervyn Oswald, is delighted with the results:

"Ards Borough Council is naturally delighted with the award for Newtownards and it is a boost to our Parks staff who work hard to ensure planting is of the highest standard," said Councillor Oswald. "Particular praise does have to paid to the small Portaferry In Bloom committee, however, who get some support from the Council but do the vast majority of this amazing work themselves, from growing plants, to the actual planting and care of the displays, as well as fundraising for additional materials - and all on a voluntary basis. They are a credit to their community and their village".

Ellie Dempster from the small Portaferry In Bloom in group said:

"I am over the moon that we won, especially considering the group we were in. There are only four of us in the group and I hope this award will spur other local people to take an interest in their town, to take pride in it and to come together to help".

Speaking at the results announcement ceremony in Ballymena, John Trethowan, Chairman, NITHC/Translink, said:

"With 127 entries from local councils, businesses and community groups as well as 21 bus and rail station entries, Translink Ulster in Bloom continues to attract high participation levels as people throughout Northern Ireland demonstrate their superb gardening talent.

"Participants have shown immense skill and creativity to ensure their areas are kept attractive. Their exquisite plant and floral displays can be enjoyed by both local people and tourists, making a positive lasting impression during their visit to Northern Ireland.

"While a number of category titles have been retained by several council areas, we have also seen a number of newcomers reach the top three placings. We hope these impressive displays will encourage even more people to get involved in Ulster in Bloom next year," said John.

Councillor Evelyne Robinson, President, Northern Ireland Local Government Association, said:

"As NILGA President, I welcome the opportunity to convey my appreciation and gratitude to the many councils, local 'In Bloom' committees, volunteers and supporters for all their hard work and countless dedication which all contribute to the ongoing success of the Translink Ulster in Bloom competition. I am especially pleased at NILGA's support and our continual encouragement to councils in their entries.

"As a Councillor I recognise the improvement in my constituency area of Ballymoney, I am very conscious of the savings which can be achieved for rate-payers through involvement in the Competition. Careful husbandry and a feeling of ownership by the residents is very helpful in combating vandalism and the nuisance of anti - social behaviour, besides providing education through good example. A pleasant, attractive environment can also be very useful in encouraging tourists to visit, and in influencing potential investors to establish new businesses. Congratulations to the winners and yet again sincere thanks to the sponsors, judges, councils and all those who make the Translink Ulster in Bloom competition what it is today."

Martyn Todd, board member, Northern Ireland Tourist Board, said:

"We are proud to offer continued support to Ulster in Bloom and commend the enthusiastic efforts and hard work of all the entrants. This competition plays an important role in making Northern Ireland a must see destination by bringing colour and vibrancy to our towns and villages which makes local areas appealing to both domestic and international visitors. And in creating such attractive townscapes, it also engenders a source of civic pride."

The Translink Ulster in Bloom Competition is organised by the Northern Ireland Local Government Association with the support of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.