THE EIGHTIETH anniversary of the first successful test of Sir Frank Whittle’s jet engine has inspired this year’s theme for Rugby in Bloom.
The annual contest encourages residents, schools and businesses to make Rugby blossom over the summer, and has become the highlight of the borough’s horticultural calendar.
Categories cater for seasoned gardeners and enthusiastic beginners, with this year’s contest celebrating Sir Frank’s pioneering work at the town’s British Thomson-Houston plant, where in 1937 he successfully tested the world’s first turbo jet engine.
Award categories for residents include best small garden, best organic vegetable plot and best first-time entrant.
Business categories cater for pubs, hotels, garden centres, community buildings and places of worship, while schools, nurseries and playgroups can also enter.
In addition, entrants who imaginatively interpret the Sir Frank Whittle anniversary theme have a chance of winning a special prize.
Rugby Borough Council environment and public realm spokeswoman Coun Lisa Parker said: “Rugby won gold at both the Heart of England in Bloom and Britain in Bloom awards in 2016, and we’re keen to raise the bar again this year to help make Rugby look its blooming best this summer.
“Rugby in Bloom brings our communities together and we look forward to receiving a bumper crop of entries.”
Visit www.rugby.gov.uk/rugbyinbloom for entry forms and more information.
Businesses interested in sponsoring floral displays for Rugby in Bloom can contact the council’s parks and grounds team at [email protected] or on (01788) 533706.
All entries must be received by Monday July 3.
