As part of the national Volunteering Week (1-7 June), Cumbria in Bloom is asking people with a passion for gardens to think about becoming a Cumbria in Bloom judge.
Each year gardeners across the country, including school children, towns and villages, tourist attractions, businesses and communities, enter their open spaces in one or other of our competition categories – with the chance to represent Cumbria in the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Britain in Bloom awards.
However, to be able to cover the whole of Cumbria, and view all the entries a team of volunteer judges are needed.
Cumbria in Bloom Administrator, Liz Auld said: “It’s easy to forget some of the often-unsung heroes of Cumbria in Bloom – the judges. Without these dedicated volunteers, Cumbria in Bloom wouldn’t exist.
“We welcome new people to join the team. Volunteer judges need not be horticulturalists as they will always be paired with and expert. Most importantly they need to have an interest in community gardening and experience of working with or supporting volunteer-led community projects.
“Also desirable is an understanding of environmental issues, particularly the importance of biodiversity and the potential effects of climate change.
“It is not a rigorous role. However, you do require a level of commitment. Training is provided, and you will need to be available for single days during one to two weeks during the judging period in late July/early August each year.
Cumbria in Bloom is part of RHS Britain in Bloom.
Chair of Cumbria in Bloom, Ronnie Auld said: “Being part of Cumbria in Bloom provides great satisfaction. It brings people together and enhances our environment.
“From school children to retired volunteers brightening up their local railway station with plants, everyone can get involved and enjoy gardening. The awards are a celebration of the great work people are doing across Cumbria, and without our volunteer judges Cumbria in Bloom could not exist.”
To find out more about being a volunteer judge, email liz@cumbria-in-bloom.org.uk
