Whitby in Bloom 2011 - Horticultural

Exposed to the elements, at the mouth of the River Esk salmon river, with open moors on 3 sides and the harsh North Sea to our back this is no place for the faint hearted gardener! Fortunately those who were born here, or made Whitby their home, taught us how to cope with adversity and to become great. Their names are known throughout the world for their strength, tenacity and achievements. Recent winters have certainly put us to the test being amongst the harshest for many years.

Our strategy over the last ten years has been to recognise this rich history and heritage in what we do. Focal points, each depicting a specific link with the past, are created by the group in partnership with residents, business and visitors and these provide many pleasant walks along pathways trodden since ancient times.

The Whitby in Bloom Group no longer works alone to enhance the towns landscape, numerous new ‘Friends’ and ‘Neighbourhood’ groups have been formed each with its own local passion and commitment. Our Town Garden competition has fourteen different categories enabling everyone to have an opportunity to show off their endeavours and seek to win one of the coveted ‘Best in Category’ plaques. A young, vibrant and enthusiastic school community now boasts a gardening group in every school, many of which have won awards both for their horticultural expertise and for their contribution to environmental issues to.