Stourbridge in Bloom

Stourbridge u3a member Barbara talks about how the Stourbridge in Bloom project and how members have contributed.

A couple of years ago a Stourbridge member floated the idea that u3a could be involved helping in the town's Stourbridge in Bloom project. Action swiftly followed, the organiser for the town was contacted and it was all systems go.

In the past the town had been successful, winning gold numerous times in the Heart of England in Bloom competition. A small dedicated group took on an area of the town taking responsibility for five raised planters and four barrier baskets on the ring road. They weeded, planted and watered - often early on a Sunday morning. Choisya, lavender and geranium along with trailing begonias bloomed. In following years petunias were chosen.

During 2020 and 2021, judging was by portfolio. 2022, and we're back to 'normal'. The group is still going strong. More sustainable planting along with red, white and blue petunias were used and judging was to be in person. This year, u3a members rose to the occasion, not only taking responsibility for one area but helping throughout the town with weeding and watering, wearing Stourbridge in Bloom u3a T shirts and high viz u3a jackets leaving passers by in no doubt that Stourbridge u3a were about!

Judging took place at the beginning of July and u3a were praised for the hours they had put in; in fact, this year over 500 hours were logged. Local organiser said "They've worked their socks off."

In September, the results will be announced, fingers crossed GOLD again.