Sudbury hailed for collective effort after scooping silver award at annual Anglia in Bloom competition

A voluntary group, which prides itself on regenerating green spaces in Sudbury, has scooped an award in recognition of its floral efforts.

Sudbury in Bloom won a silver award in the large town category in this year’s Anglia in Bloom competition.

Speaking on behalf of the group, chairman Chris Storey praised its achievement, while congratulating the collective efforts of a Sudbury charity, which won an award for the Best Garden for Special Needs.

“We are incredibly delighted as it’s an awful lot of hard work. Obviously, we would like to have done better, but we are really pleased that the Eden Rose Coppice was awarded a special prize,” he said, adding that the judges had applauded the charity’s role in providing a safe outdoors setting for cancer patients and their families.

“The judges were very impressed with the work that it does and in the community,” he added.

Sudbury in Bloom, which involves a year-round project to maintain key areas in the town, relies on a dedicated group of volunteers.

As part of its work, the group has revamped the front of St Peter’s on Market Hill with vibrant plants, while rejuvenating the drought garden in Newton Road.

The combined efforts of volunteers from Sudbury in Bloom and ActivLives have enabled the green space in BelleVue Park to be maintained for the community’s enjoyment.

Mr Storey emphasised the importance of encouraging visitors to the town.

“Part of Sudbury in Bloom is being proud of the town and that’s our main aim – for people to think ‘wow, we have enjoyed our visit’,” he said.

Members of the public are encouraged to notify the group of any neglected green spaces, while further volunteers are needed to support the group’s efforts.

“There are always lots of projects we are working on,” said Mr Storey.

To join, call 01787 311140.