Green-fingered residents win awards in contest (From The Advertiser Series)

Green-fingered residents win awards in contest in Crook

5:23pm Wednesday 19th September 2012 in News

GARDENERS, including a 92-yearold and a former butcher, have been given awards for making their town blooming beautiful.

The results of this year’s Crook in Bloom have been announced by Crook Community Partnership, with prizes handed to the competition winners.

Jack Rudd, 92, received the award for best garden outside his home at Hillcrest Aged Miners Homes.

Judge Elizabeth Allison, from Veriwell gardening company, said: “Although small, Mr Rudd’s garden was bursting with colour and plants.”

It is the second time Mr Rudd has won the award and the former miner said he still gardens every day.

Shirley Maddison won the award for best basket or hanging pot for her geranium pots.

John and Alma Corrigan, from Rumby Hill, were named as having the best allotment for their plot on High Jobs Hill.

The pair, who run the allotment with their daughter, Kathleen, grow a variety of vegetables and fruits, as well as having a pigeon loft on the site.

Mr Corrigan said: “This is the first time we have entered Crook in Bloom and we are delighted to have won.”

The final award went to retired butcher Joe McCabe and his wife Valerie for their mini garden in Corporation Terrace.

Mrs McCabe said: “This is a great competition that brings out the best of the town, but it really needs some more support from residents.”

David English, chairman of the partnership, said: “I am delighted we have our winners, who have produced some truly beautiful gardens this year.”