HORTICULTURALISTS had a “bloomin’ big smile on their faces after Newquay was awarded a record 16th consecutive gold in a prestigious competition on Thursday (October 9).

Newquay retained its gold status at the annual South West in Bloom awards in the St Bridget’s Cup section for the small coastal towns, which was held at the English Riviera Centre in Torquay.

Newquay in Bloom members attended the presentation evening, which brought together community groups, volunteers, and council teams from across the South West to honour their efforts in transforming public spaces through planting, landscaping, conservation, and environmental projects.

The Bloom team's social media coverage, overseen by Louise Edwards, was recognised with a special discretionary award.

The South West in Bloom gold award follows judges Ian Cawley and Lesley Jellyman from Devon being given a tour of Newquay on the land training July to mark the town’s horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community participation.

The tour started at Hendra Holiday Park and visited Nansledan for the first time where the judges spoke to Peter James, the project manager for the Duchy of Cornwall.

They also visited the Gannel where they met Ian Boreham from Newquay Marine Group to hear about its marine life. The judges visited the Huer’s Hut where they spoke to custodian Jon Goodman about the landmark’s history.

Deputy mayor Sarah Thomson showcased the Living Library Garden before the tour ended at Trenance Gardens. Oll an Gwella performed songs at the Trenance Cottages and the judges also got to speak to students from Newquay Orchard who were working in the garden.

Lesley Friel, the secretary of Newquay in Bloom, said: “We are so proud and so very happy, to have retained our gold status, in the St Bridget’s Cup.

“Competition in Newquay's category which includes Yeovil and Portishead was keen, but the long wait was rewarded with a 16th consecutive gold award.

“A big, blooming, congratulations to all of our small band of volunteers and to all of our supporters in Newquay.

“We would like to thank South West in Bloom. A lovely day was had by all the Newquay travelling representatives. Congratulations also, to all the Bloom teams taking part. Plus, we’re chuffed to have won an award for our social media posts.”

Mayor Cllr Drew Creek and deputy mayor Cllr Sarah Thomson attended the award presentation.

Cllr Creek said: “As mayor it was a pleasure to represent our town alongside the wonderfully dedication Newquay In Bloom team and who do so much for Newquay, in Torquay at the prestigious South West in Bloom.

“It was another brilliant year having won gold for the 16th year. I was thrilled to also see Newquay Zoo recognised for the first time this year.”

Newquay in Bloom's awards presentation evening will be held at St Michaels Church on Tuesday, October 14 at 7pm.

Mrs Friel said: “We invite all the winners in this year's gardens competition for private gardens and businesses to collect their cups and certificates.

“Everyone will be most welcome to join this celebration of gardens and gardening in Newquay with refreshments and a raffle. We look forward to a great turnout.”