Red Funnel to rescue Wight in Bloom Competition

10-03-2014 Red Funnel Ferries has stepped in to rescue this year’s popular Wight in Bloom competition which was destined to come to an end through lack of sponsorship.

Wight in Bloom is similar to the Royal Horticultural Society's Britain in Bloom campaign, which sees local communities work together to plant, prune, and dress local gardens and communal spaces ready to be judged by the competition organisers.

Red Funnel's sponsorship of Wight in Bloom will enable voluntary groups to buy plants for their communities, allow organisers to stage an awards evening, and give Islanders a chance to display the Isle of Wight at its colourful best to incoming visitors, offering a welcome boost to tourism.

There will be 6 categories this year plus an overall winner: -

  • Best Small Front Garden
  • Best Large Front Garden
  • Best Public House/Hotel/Guest House/Restaurant/Business
  • Best Senior Citizen Complex/Nursing Home/Care Home
  • Best Young People Initiative
  • Best Community Floral Project

Jonathan Green, Sales & Marketing Director for Red Funnel commented: “I am delighted that our sponsorship has helped to safeguard this long running competition and support initiatives to improve the environment for local communities and visitors alike. We look forward to seeing the Island full of colour this summer and to meeting the winners at the awards ceremony”.

Peggy Jarman, Wight in Bloom organiser commented “The Wight in Bloom competition is a real crowd puller for the Isle of Wight, encouraging towns and villages to brighten up the whole Island. We are delighted that Red Funnel that has stepped in to support the competition.”

Cllr Wayne Whittle (Ryde North East) who speaks on Tourism and the Economy for the Conservative Group of Isle of Wight Councillors commented “I would like to thank Red Funnel for coming forward to sponsor this great Island competition that encourages our Island residents and communities to strive for floral perfection throughout our Towns and countryside. Past entrants including Councils, schools, businesses and private residences, to mention a few who have enjoyed taking part over the years”.

Green-fingered Islanders can enter the competition by completing the application form in the March 14 edition of the Isle of Wight County Press or by phoning Mrs Peggy Jarman on 01983 615944.