The results of the 2021 Translink “Ulster in Bloom” Competition have been announced celebrating horticultural excellence in cities, towns and villages right across Northern Ireland. The 43rd year of the competition, which aims to boost civic pride by officially recognising beautiful plant and floral displays, attracted 125 location entries from local councils, community groups and businesses.

Saintfield came a creditable third in the Large Village category of the competition.  Culleybackey came first in this category, with Stewartstown runner – up.

Saintfield has consistently featured in this annual competition, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Green Team of volunteers in the Saintfield Development Association.  This is coupled with the support of local traders and businesses who maintain their premises and surrounds to a high standard.

Saintfield’s placing is a great result considering the limited resources and restrictions imposed through the Covid pandemic.

Saintfield  – 3rd in the Large Village Category.

Pictured L-R Vivian Lovell (Saintfield Development Association’s Saintfield in Bloom team),
Cllr Frances Burton (Vice President, NILGA), Cllr Robert Burgess (NILGA President),
Dr Michael Wardlow (Translink Chairman),
Denis Conn (Saintfield Development Association’s Saintfield in Bloom team).

Speaking at the Awards, Translink Chairman Michael Wardlow said:

“Translink is proud of its long-standing role in Ulster in Bloom and it’s great to see the competition grow each year, with 125 entries representing all local council areas as well as 24 bus and train stations entering this year.

“It is heartening to see such fantastic demonstrations of community spirit in action, especially given the challenging times everyone has experienced. These awards clearly highlight the pride so many have for their local areas. The time and dedication given to creating such beautiful spaces is commendable. It’s also great to see so much biodiversity and a focus on sustainability, whether through the use of wildflowers or community allotments, this goes hand in hand with Translink’s Climate Positive Strategy to create a cleaner, greener world for generations to come.

“Our winners demonstrate a true Ulster in Bloom ethos with their skill and enthusiasm to improve their local environment for local people and visitors to enjoy. On behalf of Translink, I’d like to congratulate all our Ulster in Bloom Champions.”

The Translink Ulster in Bloom Competition is co-ordinated by the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA). Councillor Frances Burton, Vice President, NILGA, said:

“The 2021 Translink Ulster in Bloom campaign demonstrated the enormous value and commitment of the 11 councils and our many ‘Bloom’ communities, encouraging us to care for our local places and the wider environment, supporting biodiversity, conservation, wildlife habitats, sustainable planting and the conservation of resources.

“As councils and councillors, a focus on improving the quality of life for citizens right across NI and enhancing our cities, towns and villages has never been more important given the impact of the pandemic on all of us over the past 18 months.

“On behalf of NILGA, our sincere thanks to all those who champion the “In Bloom” message of councils, local committees, residents and businesses, coming together to take pride in the places where you live and work, creating a better environment for everyone to share. Congratulations to everyone and thank you for your ongoing support and enthusiasm.” said Councillor Burton.