"The contributions that Nigel and Queux Patio Plant Centre have made to our parish successes in Britain in Bloom and the Floral Guernsey community competitions cannot be underestimated. Many of the plants which we use for seasonal planting are sourced from the Centre with recommendations from Nigel and his team. For example, the hanging baskets which enhanced the NatWest Bank this summer, and were much admired by the Floral Guernsey judges, were provided by Queux.
When the willow domes we had planted at Le Ch'min du Trésor, our conservation meadow, last year were in need of help Queux came to the rescue. With lower than average rainfalls over the last 12 months much of the living willow had died. This Spring Nigel was able to supply packs of willow whips which he helped us weave in to the existing frames in time to provide a living structure for families to enjoy this summer.
Nigel's boundless enthusiasm, advice and encouragement is much appreciated by all of us on the Floral St Peter's team."
Marguerite Talmage, Floral St Peter's Group
Seasonal displays at NatWest bank, provided by Queux Patio Plant Centre
Two years ago the Green Legacy Project provided trees for our own legacy project at La Croix Cemetery in St Peters. Several years ago the parish bought a field adjacent to the existing cemetery. Our aim in March 2009 was to create a natural break between what will in time become the burial site, and the driveway and parking area. Over 50 pupils from La Houguette School gathered to plant the 22 trees which Green Legacy donated. The children were proud to have planted these trees which they will be able to show to their own grandchildren in years to come.
2010 was the 70th anniversary of the evacuation from Guernsey of over 20,000 inhabitants. They were leaving before the island was taken over by occupying forces at the start of the Second World War. Most of the evacuees were children travelling in school groups without their parents. It would be five long years before they could return home. To mark the special anniversary Floral St Peters decided to plant 70 trees at Le Ch'min du Trésor. The Green Legacy Project provided these trees (English oak, alder, willow, sweet chestnut and ash) plus a further 70 (hawthorne, crab apple, holly and elder) to form the understory. Over 120 parishioners came in family groups to plant these trees. A copse of seven English oaks was also planted by the Bailiff of Guernsey and six former evacuees to create an area for quiet reflection.
Nigel was on hand throughout to give advice and guidance.
Neither of these projects could have gone ahead without the support of Green Legacy.
The living willow outdoor classroom at Le Ch'min du Trésor on Floral Guernsey Community Competition judging day.
La Houguette School pupils planting trees guided by Floral St Peters volunteer helpers. Sycamore (acer pseudoplatanus 'atropupurea') and Ash (Eureka) were selected, they should thrive in the very exposed saline conditions.
The trees planted in March 2009 at La Croix Cemetery two and a half years on - August 2011.
The St Peter's community came together to plant trees at Le Ch'min du Trésor to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the evacuation
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Britain in Bloom 2010 - RESULTS
St. Pierre du Bois, Guernsey - Large Village – GOLD AWARD
Judges Comments-
"As a first time entry into the Britain in Bloom UK Finals the community of St Pierre du Bois are to be congratulated on an excellent all-round standard of achievement. The pride of the local community in their village was clearly evident to the judges. A true community entry which encompasses all that is best about Bloom; this entry will be no stranger to the national finals in the years ahead.
Horticultural Achievement
Areas of achievement
The transformation of the Old School Flats Garden into a very pleasant community asset for the residents and Len's devotion to his containers was inspiring. Only one word describes the five residents' gardens at La Rue du Lorier - WOW!
The number of businesses within the village participating in the campaign is to be applauded.
The impact of the displays at the two main hubs within the village (the church/ parish hall and the shopping area) make you instantly aware that this is a Bloom entry and the evident pride the local community have in their village.
The striking improvements at the community centre and the lift that the Bloom campaign has given to this area.
Areas for improvement
Look to extend the range of plant types within the new areas of sustainable planting. Seek to ensure an even standard of maintenance and feeding regime across all the floral containers
Continue the development of The Marie de Garis Community Garden with further maintenance to improve the quality of the turf grass within this area.
Environmental Responsibility
Areas of achievement
The Le Ch'min du Tresor is a wonderful public space rich in wildlife and biodiversity - a terrific asset to the local community. The management plan currently being drafted will continue to direct the development of this green space in the years ahead. All involved wjth this initiative are to be congratulated.
The way the Bloom campaign has galvanised the whole community and generated a great sense of pride of place amongst all the residents of the village.
The way the Bloom campaign has used the island's local heritage e.g. tree planting to commemorate the island evacuation and the gun battery at the school.
The innovative 'Invest in a Nest' scheme, giving local people 'ownership' of a bird nesting box which will continue their interest in the years ahead. A great idea!
Areas for improvement
An interpretation board at Le Ch'min du Tresor would be a valuable addition to this excellent public space.
The judges will be interested to see the plans for the landscaping of the L'Eree 'Bring Site' as these are developed.
The judges noted that you are looking far a site to recycle green waste and hope that this proves to be successful.
Consider negotiating a discounted price for the supply of compost bins to villagers, along the lines of the scheme in operation for water butts.
Community Participation
Areas of achievement
The overall planning process for the Bloom campaign to make it as inclusive and all encompassing of the entire community as possible is an example for others to follow.
The first-class website which is very informative and easy to navigate. The level of funding /sponsorship / support from all sectors of the community demonstrates the village's commitment to the Bloom and the way this benefits the whole community.
The way the campaign has become embedded into the way of life of this community, with a varied year-round programme of events, is a credit to the local Bloom organisers and their excellent communication skills."
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May 2010-Willow weaving
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