In Bloom president tops off his tenure with gold award

The president of an In Bloom group has topped off his tenure by securing a gold award.

Michael King receiving his Norwich in Bloom red coat in December 2004 when he became the first President of Norwich in Bloom. Photo: Norwich BID (Image: Archant)

Mike King, president of Norwich in Bloom bagged the award for the city just as he was due to retire.

Mike, who is also a Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) city host, has been president of Norwich in Bloom for 13 years.

The award is a first for Norwich since the In Bloom society was formed 31 years ago, and as The Friends of Norwich in Bloom lead a national entry from Norwich BID for the 2018 finals they will be hoping to keep up the gold standard.

Mike said: 'It has been both a privilege and an honour to serve as president of The Friends of Norwich in Bloom for the past thirteen years.

'The dedication of the Bloomer team, the giving of their time, their expertise and hard work has been truly inspirational.

'This has been recognised by the many awards, both national and regional, that the team has received over the years of my stewardship. I wish all the Bloomers every success in their future efforts in securing Norwich as a Blooming Fine City.'

The judging panel were impressed with the City of Stories murals around the city and sustainable floral planting displays using drought tolerant, bio-diverse perennials grown by students at City College Norwich.

RHS judges also found the Norwich portfolio to be one of the most comprehensive they had ever seen.

Compiled by Terry Bane the portfolio demonstrated community participation along with a wealth of information and fantastic photos showcasing the city.

The Friends said the gold award for Norwich was secured through the high standard of strong partnerships and collaboration between; Norwich BID, Norwich in Bloom, Norwich City Council, Norwich Norse Environmental, City College Norwich, Heavenly Gardens, St. Stephens Church, Notcutts, Surrey Street Free School and Norwich businesses within the Norwich BID area including Castle Mall, Intu Chapelfield, John Lewis, Hatch Brenner, Norwich Accountancy Services and The Assembly House along with groups and volunteers.

Britain in Bloom is the UK's biggest community gardening campaign – with up to 300,000 volunteers. For more information, or to get involved, visit www.norwichinbloom.co.uk/