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Dunstable welcomed the Britain in Bloom judges on Monday 3 August as the town proudly showcased the community spirit, environmental projects, green spaces and volunteer-led initiatives that have helped make Dunstable bloom.
Dunstable’s participation in the RHS Britain in Bloom competition follows its recognition as a winner in the Anglia in Bloom Awards, earning the town the honour of representing the Anglia region at the national level. Britain in Bloom celebrates towns and cities that excel in environmental responsibility, horticulture and community in involvement.
The judges were given a tour of a variety of locations across the town, demonstrating the contributions made by volunteers, residents, schools, community organisations, businesses and Dunstable Town Council.
The day began at Woodside Industrial Estate and Community Garden, where Tony Parker and his team highlighted their community garden and wildlife-friendly approach to estate management.
The judges then visited Incredible Edible Katherine Drive, where Albert Timpson, Beverley Alger and volunteers showcased the thriving urban ‘Grow Your Own’ project, encouraging local people to grow fruit, vegetables and herbs within their neighbourhood.
At Priory Park Independent Living, residents Lia Newman and Lorna Bell demonstrated how gardening and environmental projects bring people together, improve wellbeing and create a strong sense of community.
The tour continued to Mentmore Recreation Ground, where volunteers and council staff showcased the transformation of the park into a vibrant biodiverse green space. During the visit to Mentmore Recreation Ground, the Town Council’s Marketing and Communications Officer interviewed the Britain in Bloom judges, asking a range of questions about the competition and a favourite question of ‘if you were a flower, what would you be a why’.
A slow drive past Dunstable Cemetery allowed the judges to view one of the town’s most iconic and well-maintained entrances before moving on to Ashton St Peter’s School, where pupils proudly shared their school gardening projects and the benefits they bring to learning and the environment.
In the heart of the town, the judges visited The Square, where representatives from Men in Sheds, Dunstable Wombles, the Methodist Church and local volunteers explained how sustainable planting and colourful floral displays help create an attractive and welcoming town centre.
The tour then moved to the award-winning Priory Gardens and Churchyard, a site recognised with both Green Flag and Green Heritage accreditation. Here, Physic Garden volunteers, Friends Groups and Grounds staff demonstrated how Dunstable’s historic green spaces are carefully maintained and preserved for future generations.
At The Quadrant Shopping Centre, volunteers highlighted the floral displays that help brighten one of the town’s key shopping destinations before the judges visited Lilly’s Garden at Dunstable Community Halls, managed by Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity (Beds RCC) and local volunteers, the community garden provides opportunities for residents to connect, learn new skills and improve wellbeing.
The final stop was Grove Corner – Wheelie Fantastic, where members of the Town Council’s Youth and Community Team and volunteer barrow makers showcased the town’s creative floral barrow displays, celebrating community participation and imagination.
The visit concluded at Grove House, where the judges were welcomed by the Town Mayor of Dunstable Councillor Richard Attwell and representatives from across the town.
"It has been a pleasure to welcome the Britain in Bloom judges to Dunstable and showcase the incredible work taking place across our town. Britain in Bloom is about much more than flowers; it is about community pride, environmental responsibility and people working together to improve where they live. I would like to thank every volunteer, resident, community group, school, business and member of staff who has contributed to making Dunstable a greener, cleaner and more welcoming place." Town Mayor of Dunstable Councillor Richard Attwell
"The visit highlighted the dedication and passion of so many people across Dunstable. From community gardens and school projects to biodiversity initiatives and town centre displays, the judges have seen first-hand the difference that volunteers and local organisations make every day. We are incredibly proud of everything that has been achieved." Liz Jones, Chair of Dunstable in Bloom
The visit provided an opportunity for the judges to experience the breadth of environmental and community projects taking place throughout Dunstable and to see how collaboration and civic pride continue to help the town flourish.
The results of the RHS Britain in Bloom Awards will be announced on the 20 October at the awards ceremony in Rochdale. Residents are encouraged to follow Dunstable Town Council’s website and social media channels for updates and news on the town’s progress in the competition.
