Thornton le Dale still flourishing despite Bloom cancellation

Green-fingered villagers have vowed to keep their prize-winning community thriving despite the cancellation of this year’s Britain in Bloom.
Daffodils in Thornton le DaleDaffodils in Thornton le Dale
Daffodils in Thornton le Dale

Thornton le Dale Hub entered the competition after the village won gold in last year’s Yorkshire in Bloom. It was named as North Yorkshire’s only finalist, battling it out in the largest village category.

However, with the Government advising everyone to follow social distancing measures during the coronavirus pandemic, gardening activities have been postponed.

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“It is obviously disappointing, but being positive, all the preparation will not be wasted and in fact what was going to be a great display this year will be fantastic by next year,” said Roger Sharples, a coordinator of the Britain in Bloom entry.

The daffodils were planted two years agoThe daffodils were planted two years ago
The daffodils were planted two years ago

“We are working hard on the background information and preparing for next year – it will be worth the wait!”

The Hub comprises a group of 160 dedicated volunteers who plan and deliver activities aimed at enhancing the local environment. They launched a Bee Friendly initiative, with the crafty club knitting bees and handing out seeds to all residents.

Roger added: “A large number of volunteers in the village are continuing to work on the Bee Friendly entry. A group are producing a range of craft items, including knitted bees and butterflies and making flowers from recycled material.

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“The daffodils planted two years ago by the Hub volunteers have been beautiful this year – shame that visitors haven’t been able to see the show, but the residents have benefited.”

Daffodils have been a welcome sight in Thornton le DaleDaffodils have been a welcome sight in Thornton le Dale
Daffodils have been a welcome sight in Thornton le Dale

Among the work has been improvements around the pond, including a nature trail, supported by

County Councillor Janet Sanderson, member for Thornton Dale and The Wolds, through her locality grant.

“It’s hugely disappointing that Britain in Bloom will not take place this year, but it is more important that people are kept safe,” said Councillor Sanderson.

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“That said, you only have to look at the village with its amazing display of daffodils to know that we are reaping the rewards of the Hub’s hard work last year. The cheerful feel this brings to our village at a time when we all need some uplift will, I am sure, be a greater consolation prize that no competition could surpass.”

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