It’s that time of year where the green fingered can get back out into the garden, patio or vegetable patch again.
It is also time to consider entering the Age Concern Derry Annual Gardening Competition where the over 60s have a chance to show off their hard work and creativity in cultivating small and large areas of beauty.
It is easy to take for granted the beauty of gardens, large and small or window boxes and hanging baskets, and to ignore the effort and thought that lies behind them.
This competition wants to shine a spotlight on all those gardeners who are doing their bit to make their garden, windowsill or back yard look good. Research demonstrates the powerful health effects of gardening on mood, heart health, hand strength and dexterity. In addition by cultivating flowers and vegetables and imaginative use of space, gardeners help make the city more beautiful.
To enter the competition is very simple. There are four competitive sections, with prizes for:
The best gardens;
The best enclosed yard or patio;
The best vegetable plot;
The best hanging baskets or window boxes.
Choose your category – and remember you may choose more than one category to enter.
Submit an entry form, available from Age Concern Derry, for each category, then get working on your horticultural masterpieces.
For the purpose of the competition, entries will be divided into two geographical zones with prizes awarded for the best categories in either zone.
There is also the chance to win the Older People North West/Age Concern Derry Perpetual Cup by being crowned the best overall entrant in 2018 from either zone.
The closing date for entries is Friday 20th July. Gardens will then be visited and judged by the City of Derry and District Gardening Society, who will ward points for maintenance, variety, Colour and overall impression.
A spokesperson for Age Concern said, 'We also welcome entries from local community groups and organisations who might want to create a community garden or vegetable plot. The purpose of this popular competition is to get as many individuals and groups active in gardening, and to create an event which also has a social aspect.’
Winners and participants in the competition will be invited to the Awards Evening at Malvern House in September, to enjoy tea and supper and good gardening stories. This year’s competition is being generously supported by Altnagelvin Garden Centre, 100 Irish Street, with a spot prize donated by Homebase, Crescent Link.
Contact Older People North West/AgeConcern Derry, directly at Malvern House, Chapel Road for further information and entry forms. Alternatively you may email us: development@olderpeoplenorthwest.org or ring 028 71 347478.
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