Back in September last year, when we were flushed with success at winning gold in the regional competition and being entered into the national finals, I attended a Britain in Bloom seminar in Stevenage alongside Alan Webb, one our Parks Services team members.  It was a great chance to meet all the other finalists and to find out who we are up against.  We discovered that we were one of seven towns that had been entered into this year's final - our closest rival being the City of London (apparently it goes by population!). After talking to some of the other finalists, we found that our budget for the competition was minute in comparison! However, it isn't money that is important for Henley, people are, and we have plenty of those!

So, over the past couple of months, I have been visiting local organisations, writing to schools and seeking sponsors. After all, the competition is about helping individuals and groups of people to get involved in their community and help make a real difference to their area.

The response so far has been fantastic but we still need lots more support. Aside from helping Henley to win this prestigious title by keeping your area tidy and free of litter, we also need manpower, equipment, time, sponsorship and advice.

This morning, we held a Henley in Bloom 'breakfast launch' in Kings Barn to raise awareness of the competition amongst local businesses and organisations. After a breakfast of Shredded Wheat, I gave a short presentation detailing the projects that are currently underway. It seemed to work as we have gained interest from a number of people who have said they will donate plants, money and time towards our projects. People seemed surprised when I told them about all of the projects underway - I don't think people realise how much is going on!

Aside from entering the Henley front and back gardens competitions or the pub and restaurant competition, you can also get involved by helping with the following projects: 

Gillotts School - 'Gateway' lodge garden. Contact Roger Pitcher on 01491 574315

Mill Meadows - raised beds that will display the Town Councils logo and the Oxford Inspires logo in flowers. Email hodgkin1@waitrose.com 

Valley Road Chalk Bank and Mill Meadows wildlife area. Contact Sally Rankin of Henley Wildlife Group on 01491 578633 

I also spoke to a few people in Waitrose yesterday who asked about the competition and were really pleased with how the town is looking - I agree with them - lets keep it that way!