BLOOMING marvellous – that's the verdict of organisers after the announcement that Buxton has been nominated to represent Britain in next year's Europe-wide Entente Florale competition.

Buxton achieved the prestigious accolade after coming third and winning a Silver Gilt medal in the hotly-contested Large Town (12,000 to 35,000 residents) category of this year's Britain in Bloom at Chester Racecourse last week.

The town's showpiece Pavilion Gardens – the only park in the East Midlands to boast a coveted Green Heritage Award – was also one of only four shortlisted finalists for the prize of Best Park in Britain, won by Ravelin Park, Southsea.

And the Borough Council's Executive was so impressed by Buxton's achievement that it has doubled its usual contribution to the Bloom campaign from £10,000 to £20,000 to give an extra boost to its bid for European floral glory.

"This is absolutely fantastic news, and a fitting reward for all those who have made such an effort to make the town look its blooming best, despite the often difficult weather conditions," said John Haken, High Peak Borough Council's Executive Councillor for the Environment.

"I'd like to thank everyone involved, including dedicated committee members, local businesses, schools and residents, who have worked so hard to earn the great honour of representing Britain in Europe next year.

"We are delighted to be able to double our support for this excellent opportunity to put both Buxton and the High Peak on the map, promoting their attractions to a wider audience and bringing positive benefits for tourism and the area's economy."

Jane McGrother, Chair of the Buxton in Bloom Committee, said: "This is a tremendous achievement. Until five years ago we had not won any awards. Since then we have progressed to win first place and Silver Gilt awards three years in a row.

"None of this would have been possible without the invaluable assistance of the Borough Council – in terms of money, time and advice.

"We still face a massive challenge if we are to do justice to the confidence placed in us by Britain in Bloom, and need to involve as many groups as possible. Please get in touch if you'd like to help make Buxton the best Large Town in Europe."

Britain in Bloom judges praised the town's entry as a 'successful working partnership between the council and the community', describing the Pavilion Gardens and conservatory as 'outstanding'.

They also highlighted Vision Buxton's role as a catalyst, work by the University of Derby and the Friends of the Pavilion Gardens, as well as the Buxton Civic Association, and the sculpture project co-ordinated by Cavendish Residents' Group.

Several businesses already back Buxton in Bloom, but attracting more support will be a key factor in Buxton's bid for European success.

To find out about the promotional opportunities available, contact Mel Henley, Council Parks and Environment Manager, on 0845 129 77 77. Gardening, environmental and community groups should contact Jane McGrother on 01298 24779 or Di Golding on 01298 79320.

* Europe in Bloom judges will come here next July and August.

Courtesy of Buxton Advertiser Oct 2nd 2008