OVER 80 interested people packed a room in Donaghadee Community Centre to hear the plans for this year’s In Bloom displays.
The meeting had been organised by Donaghadee Community Development Association to galvanise support for the programme with a particular focus on the town’s entry for Britain in Bloom.
Over the next few weeks, 75 hanging baskets will be erected, 220 window boxes distributed, containers of all shapes and sizes will be planted out and a group of volunteers will meet weekly to undertake specific tasks.
Referring to the support received from all quarters, John Caldwell, secretary of the Association, said: “We are deeply appreciative of all the support this project is receiving. County Hardware has been very generous in making transport available, local traders, individuals and community groups have come forward to take responsibility for displays and the advice and support we have received from the Council’s Parks Department has been superb.”
Following the briefing, various ideas were discussed.
A key concern was the detrimental impact of weeds along the footpath and roadside, with the Warren Road being singled out as being particularly bad. The Department for Infrastructure had been contacted but in the meantime volunteers were clearing where they could.
Chairman of the Association, Denis Waterworth, thanked everyone for attending, saying: “It is so encouraging when we get a turnout like this. While the primary focus is on Britain in Boom we are very mindful of the positive impact the project is having on community spirit, civic pride and on the health and well-being of all involved.”
