Alderney set to welcome Britain in Bloom judges

Final preparations are underway for this year's Britain in Bloom competition.

The island of Alderney is set to represent the Bailiwick of Guernsey in the national Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) awards, which celebrate outstanding horticulture, sustainability, wildlife conservation and heritage.

A total of 44 communities from across the British Isles are set to take part, with Alderney shortlisted in the coastal category.

Judges for the competition will visit the island on 29 July.

Members of the Alderney Horticultural Society have been working to plant and maintain many of the island's public spaces.

The Memorial Garden, hanging baskets along Victoria Street, flower displays at the Channel Islands' only railway station, and planting schemes at both the harbour and airport are among areas being showcased.

During their three-hour visit, judges will see the recently restored Hut at Saye, where the Alderney Wildlife Trust and the Youth Commission have transformed the building into a centre where young people can engage with wildlife and conservation projects.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) will also recognise communities which demonstrate a strong commitment to conservation, sustainability and volunteer involvement.

Their itinerary will include visits to the Roman Fort at Longis, the internationally important Ramsar site and gannet colony on the island's west coast, together with visits to a selection of gardens across the island.

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