Winning ‘Nottingham’s Gardening Oscars

Thinking of entering the Nottingham in Bloom Garden Competition? Take the advice of last year’s winners and give it a go! Jo, Alex and Fran Lawson write about their experience of winning ‘Space for Nature’ and Overall Winner in 2007.

‘We had always wanted a garden that would be safe for our children as well as somewhere that would be exciting and full of interest for them. We also discovered that this was exactly what the wildlife enjoyed as well – no chemicals, lots of different habitats – shrubs, hedges, woodpiles – as well as compost, leaf heaps and a pond. We have never had much time to devote to the garden, but gradually we have made it what we wanted it to be. We now mark the different seasons through the changing face of our garden and it gives us back more than we had ever anticipated. At the end of busy working days we always take a moment for a quick wander up the garden to enjoy the sounds, smells and sights of our peaceful and birdsong-filled haven.

‘Never ones to miss a free plant or two, we noticed Nottingham in Bloom’s various “giveaways.” Along with the bulbs, plants or seeds were useful information leaflets as well as application forms for the individual and community categories of the “In Bloom” competition. We had certainly never ever thought about entering a garden competition – particularly not having a “traditional” garden - it never seemed a possibility. But then we saw “Space for Nature” and decided to enter – really just for a laugh. We almost forgot about it until we were contacted and asked if we could meet the judge and show her around.

‘It was only when the judge came that we realised just how much we had done to become sustainable and grow our veg, fruit and flowers in tune with nature – rather than battling with it. Suddenly we felt really proud of the things we had done and it was great to show an expert around who showed so much interest.

‘Next thing we knew was that we were invited to the Awards Ceremony at Nottingham Castle. We were so surprised and excited – we could hardly believe it.

‘What an evening to remember! – from the live music and glasses of champagne that greeted us upon arrival – to the awards ceremony itself. It felt like the “Oscars” of the Nottingham gardening world!

‘It was very heart-warming and truly fantastic to meet all the other category finalists - children and young people, community groups, businesses and pensioners – all gardening in different ways to brighten up their homes, their schools, their neighbourhoods and the City.

‘Winning our category and, even more incredibly, being awarded “overall winner” – both with gold medals was like the icing on the cake. I think it was several days before we could actually believe it hadn’t all been a dream. Our prizes were lovely and have meant that we have been able to keep on enjoying and remembering “in Bloom” every time we use them.

‘We now say to people we know – have a look at the competition categories – and just have a go!’

Jo, Alex and Fran Lawson

Click here to enter the Nottingham in Bloom Garden Competition 2008