WASHINGTON Village in Bloom has done it again, scooping a major prize in the UK’s most prestigious horticultural contest.
The Bloomers have won Gold in 2026 RHS Britain in Bloom awards – while one of the group’s younger members picked up a Young Champion Award.
Washington Village was one of just 10 villages from across the UK to reach the finals of the Royal Horticultural Society’s annual awards, a competition where entry is by invitation only.
Judges visited the village during the summer to inspect floral displays along with judging the village for its community involvement and environmental responsibility.
And on Tuesday, Chair Joan Atkinson and members of the group headed to Rochdale for the finals, where they were awarded Gold in the Village category.
There were more celebrations when young volunteer Oliver received one of just two Young Champions Awards, which recognises the hard work of inspiring youngsters aged 21 or under.
Oliver impressed the judges with his passion for climate issues, conservation and sustainable living along with his horticultural knowledge.
“Oliver’s understanding of plants, soil composition, growing conditions, nutrient requirements and biodiversity is extraordinary,” said Britain in Bloom judges Rae Beckwith and Mary Bagley.
“He can confidently identify species using both common and Latin names and explain the precise conditions required for successful growth.”
The success comes just a month after Washington Village in Bloom swept the board at the Northumbria in Bloom awards, winning a Gold and Best in Class in the Village category, the Best Entry in Spring award and then the Percy Boydell Award as the Best Overall Entry.
The group has been running for 25 years and meets every Sunday at Washington Village to work on planters, beds and ensure the village green and surrounding area remains picture perfect all year round, funding all plants and equipment themselves via fundraising initiatives.
There were also celebrations for Chester-le-Street in Bloom, which secured a Silver in the Large Town category, while volunteer Clare Todd received a RHS Community Champion award.
Sarah Galvin, RHS Head of National Community Programmes, said: “We have been so impressed by the achievements of this year’s finalists. After a summer of consecutive heatwaves and drought, engaging communities in hands-on approaches to tackling the climate crisis has never felt more urgent.
“This is the power of Britain in Bloom and the wider community gardening movement: turning practical local action into lasting environmental and social impact, while inspiring others to do the same.”
