There were smiles all round recently as Thetford scooped Silver Award as part of the annual Anglia In Bloom competition.

Entering the Large Town Category 2023, Thetford reps were delighted to be awarded Silver at the ceremony held in Huntington during September. The award is part of the national Britain in Bloom campaign with the Anglia region covering Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. The Britain in Bloom campaign is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society in partnership with Shredded Wheat.

Councillor Terry Jermy, Chairman of the Town Council’s Amenities Committee said; “The Town Council has been working hard to improve floral displays around the Town Centre with great new additions on the market square. Our hanging baskets continue to be popular, and the team have made a great effort this year with notable displays including the roundabout opposite the Green Dragon. We all know there’s more to do and we’re determined to make progress next year. Gold is in our sights!”.

It’s only the second time in recent years that Thetford has entered. Judges visited the town in July and were given a tour of floral hotspots including Kings House gardens.

The Town Council’s Town Team Manager Nick Thompson said; “I’d like to thank the many volunteers who contribute to our floral displays, weeding efforts and conservation work. They make a tremendous contribution to the town which we all benefit from. I’d also like to thank our Town Council staff for all their hard work. The judges report gives us much to build on for future years whilst also taking stock of what we’re already doing well”.

Judges award points based on evidence of environmental friendliness, community support, horticulture excellence and sustainability.

The Council intends to grow its volunteer team to help with floral displays in preparation for next year’s effort. If you would like to get involved then please contact the team to register your interest. The Town Council can be contacted on 01842 754247.