Buxton's European campaign takes root

Monday, 08 December 2008 17:58

Support is growing for Buxton’s bid to represent Britain in Europe’s largest environment competition.

[Mentor Clive Addison with members of the group]

Around 40 individuals and representatives of local groups attended a public meeting at the Pavilion Gardens on Monday to give their backing to the town’s entry into the Entente Florale competition next summer.

“I was thrilled to bits to see so many people turn up,” said Buxton in Bloom chair Jane McGrother. “Entente Florale will be a huge challenge, but we are off to a very positive start.”

Buxton was nominated to represent Britain alongside the Scottish village of Forres after scooping a silver gilt award in this year’s Britain in Bloom.

Now the Buxton in Bloom committee has launched a campaign to raise the funds needed to enter the event, which will culminate in a two-day visit next July or August by 12 Entente Florale judges from across Europe.

We were initially told that entry into the event could cost as much as £20,000, although that figure isn’t set in stone. We have already been offered a lot of free professional support which is bringing the cost down,” said Jane.

High Peak Mayor Cllr Robin Baldry told the meeting that he would host a fundraising dinner for the cause – and donated £250 from his community chest. Spring Gardens Shopping Centre manager Diana Golding also pledged £500.

“We have got to go forward with Entente Florale,” said Cllr Baldry. “We cannot afford to turn this opportunity down; it will be such a tourist attraction for Buxton and the High Peak.”
High Peak Borough Council’s parks and environment manager Mel Henley attended the meeting in his capacity as a Buxton in Bloom committee member. He had seen the positive effects of previous Entente Florale contests while working in Oxford and Nottingham – and was convinced that Buxton would reap similar benefits.”

“Buxton is a wonderful, beautiful town. Entering in bloom and Entente Florale gives us the chance to celebrate what we have got – and the chance to put Buxton on the European stage,” he said. Mel also revealed that three companies were already interested in sponsoring the campaign to the tune of £2,500 each.

The committee, which will also stage Buxton’s entry for East Midlands in Bloom this summer, is appealing for cash donations or other contributions from local people, businesses and other organisations. They also hope to recruit more volunteers for gardening and other projects.

A further meeting is being planned in the near future. In the meantime, anyone interested in getting involved can contact Jane McGrother on 01298 24779, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .