Green fingered team looking to triumph once again

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The winners of the best group dwellings garden in this year’s Newport garden festival are now in line for further recognition in the prestigious Britain in Bloom competition after being judged as part of the town of Newport.

The judges visited Wrekin Retirement Living scheme, Cornmell Lea in Newport to judge the gardens then joined residents Lynda Murmanis and Pat Evans to discuss the schemes finer points.

Although the winners won’t be announced until later this month the team of green fingered residents are hopeful that their hard work will be recognised for a second time.

Resident Pat explains; “I’m not very competitive but the gardening has given me a new interest which has been good for me, especially now my husband is less mobile. As well as planting my own garden I’ve worked with my neighbour to create borders in the communal areas of our scheme using large rocks for added interest.”

Lynda continues; “Entering these competitions has inspired everyone to do something with their own garden areas and we are having fun swapping plants and ideas. Feedback from the judges has been positive and I even think one judge was a little overwhelmed by the garden we have created!”

Residents are also working together on a seating area within the gardens to be used for coffee mornings and other social events.

Wrekin Retirement Living coordinator Debi Teague said, “This is just a lovely scheme and everybody is so happy with the way the gardens have come together. It’s just getting bigger and better each year. The gardening is also great for getting people together and their mobility.”

Gardening is just one of many pastimes that Wrekin Retirement Living residents get stuck into. You can find out more about Retirement Living here.

2nd September 2016