Brandon to represent Anglia at Britain in Bloom finals in 2025

Brandon in Bloom has been nominated to represent the Anglia region at the prestigious Britain in Bloom finals next year; the second time in just three years.

The news of the nomination came during Brandon in Bloom’s annual awards evening which aims to thank those who participated in the 2024 Anglia in Bloom campaign; a year which saw Brandon take Gold and Best Town in the region.

Over 70 certificates were handed out to volunteers, allotment holders, businesses, community groups and all three local councils who were involved in the 2024 campaign.

Speeches were made by Cliff Waterman, Leader of West Suffolk Council, Mark Walsh, director of Operations at West Suffolk Council, Patrick Gibson from West Suffolk Council, Phil Wittam Chair of Brandon Town Council and Victor Lukaniuk County, District & Brandon Town Councillor.

Shorty after 6:30pm a letter which was sealed with DO NOT OPEN BEFORE 6:30pm on 7th November was opened and read out. The letter was from the Anglia in Bloom team, inviting Brandon to represent Anglia at the Britain in Bloom finals 2025.

This was followed by a letter from Nick Timothy MP congratulating the bloomers on their success, thanking them for their hard work and congratulating them on the nomination.

Brandon in Bloom first entered the regional Anglia in Bloom competition in 2018, receiving a Silver Gilt award and nominated as Best Newcomer.

Gold awards followed at each year from 2019 through to 2024.

Brandon first represented Anglia in the Brandon in Bloom national finals in 2023, resulting in a Gold and a Best Town award.

Rachel Sobiechowski, Head of Horticulture for Brandon in Bloom, said: “It was initially a shock to hear we had been entered into the national finals for 2025, I thought the gap between nominations was two years, so it was in my plans at all, even though we had done really well at our regional awards.

“It is an honour to be representing the region again, and although I’m feeling some pressure to keep up our high standards I am relishing the challenge of campaigning again on a national level. I know our volunteers and everyone in Brandon is extremely excited by the news and will support the hard work required over the months ahead.

“It’s 30 years since the formation of Anglia in Bloom, but in Brandon we’re looking forward to the next 30 years. Gardens play an important part of the natural environment and as gardeners we can all help tackle issues such as climate change and help increase biodiversity. Our displays are always unique and creative, which is something that our judges really appreciate. In 2025 we will be focusing on modern garden techniques, using plants and designs that are adapted for the future.

“I’d like to use this opportunity to thank all our volunteers, council staff and sponsors for their support. If anyone would like to help us with our 2025 campaign through volunteering or sponsorship please contact us, we need your support now more than ever!”