
Donaghadee and Comber have been recognised among Northern Ireland’s top horticultural talent at this year’s Translink Ulster in Bloom competition. Mayor of Ards and North Down, Mark Brooks, said he was delighted to see his hometown of Donaghadee winning the town category, while Comber and Carnalea Railway Station both secured third in their respective categories. “It is thanks to the wonderful efforts of the council’s parks staff as well as a host of enthusiastic volunteers that have secured these successes for our borough,” he said. “The Translink Ulster in Bloom competition is very highly regarded. It helps to instil local pride while also creating awareness of the environment and biodiversity. It encourages cross community participation and involves people of all ages and abilities.” The annual horticultural showcase is coordinated by the Northern Ireland Local Government Association and encourages cities, towns and villages right across Northern Ireland to look their best, boosting civic pride through beautiful plant and floral displays. Areas are judged from July until early August during the key summer period.