Yorkshire in Bloom gold for racecourse and primary school

Beverley Racecourse and Molescroft Primary School are celebrating after striking gold in the prestigious Yorkshire in Bloom awards.

The awards ceremony took place in Tadcaster last month, with the Westwood racecourse picking up its gold gong for medium business and Molescroft Primary School coming out as one of the top entrants in the Harrogate Flower Show – Young People’s Award category.

In their summary of Beverley Racecourse’s efforts, the In Bloom judges noted: ‘The approach to the racecourse through Beverley Common provides an excellent setting for what awaited the judges.

‘We found an impressive course, very well maintained with a variety of excellent planters throughout.

‘We were guided around the racecourse by Tom who explained all the improvement work that has taken place, the premier enclosure and gave us information about future plans and aspirations, such as new planting on terraces and front of the building and an improved access path to the disabled viewing area.

‘We felt that Tom is a great ambassador for the racecourse. New wooden containers, made in house, have been planted this year with trailing begonias.

‘In fact, begonias, mixed varieties, have replaced petunias this year to overcome the challenges of rabbits, wind and the weather either being very wet or dry.

‘They seemed to be thriving. The tree-lined hydrangea walk with memorial seating and pergolas was beautifully kept and we could see why it is a popular area with racegoers.

‘Memorial benches can be purchased and are placed throughout the course, all made locally.

‘The racecourse aims to support local businesses including local artists and we were pleased to see examples of art within the racecourse, such as the frog in the lavender bed and box bed.

‘Lavender planting within the racecourse was attracting much bee activity. The colourful floral display at the Touch Above Bar, 55 boxes, lifts the area.

‘In winter, violas are used to provide an all-year display to greet non-race going visitors out of season.
‘We would like to congratulate all involved in this entry and look forward to seeing the future plans develop.’

With regards to Molescroft’s entry, the judges highlighted a fitting tribute to a much-loved late teacher, as well as the enthusiasm of both students and staff in making the school a biodiverse area.

‘Molescroft Primary is a school where the environment is embedded in everything that they do,’ remarked the judging panel.

‘Their experience of the Eco School Green Flag status is demonstrated throughout the school grounds and is reflected in their curriculum work.

‘We were shown a wonderful 10-minute video which showed us the complete all-year-round work which goes on throughout the school.

‘The judges were particularly impressed by the inclusive nature of all year groups taking part in this years ‘Pride of Yorkshire’ Project which represented notable people and places from across Yorkshire and was illustrated in a flower tub competition that was supported by an entry from every class group throughout the school.

‘The displays showed innovation and a good use of colour.

‘Also, the plant combinations, along with the ornaments and artwork was inspirational.”

Yorkshire in Bloom is the regional arm of Britain in Bloom, a competition organised by the Royal Horticultural Society, aimed at encouraging local communities to improve their environments by coming together through gardening.