Cullybackey awarded Best Large Town in Translink Ulster in Bloom competition

CULLYBACKEY is the cream of the crop after being crowned winner in the Large Town category of the recent Translink Ulster in Bloom competition.

Ballymena came second in the Large Town/Small city category.

Ahoghill was placed second in the Small Town category.

The Mid and East Antrim Council area claimed top spot in the Best Station title which was won by Whitehead Railway Station.

In an event hosted at Hill of the O’Neill in Dungannon, the popular horticultural competition celebrated the fantastic work of green-fingered gardening enthusiasts across the country and officially recognised the most beautiful plant and floral displays across local cities, towns and villages.

Margaret Murphy, from Cullybackey Community Partnership the winner of the Ken Powles Community Champion Award in recognition of the lasting and positive difference she has made to her local area by embracing the ‘Ulster in Bloom’ ethos.

Speaking at the results event, Translink Chairman Dr Michael Wardlow said:

“The annual Translink Ulster in Bloom competition is a wonderful demonstration of community spirit and highlights the fantastic work and dedication of volunteers who take exceptional pride in their local areas, big and small.

“Each worthy winner is a shining example of the true Ulster in Bloom ethos, which brings together knowledge, skill and most importantly enthusiasm, to create beautiful spaces and improve their local environment for everyone to enjoy.

“The awards also showcase the work and commitment of our Translink staff in stations and halts across Northern Ireland in bringing biodiversity, plants and flowers to these spaces.

“On behalf of Translink, I’d like to congratulate all our Ulster in Bloom winners and participants.”

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 participants and winners from the 2022 Translink Ulster in Bloom campaign have yet again shone a light on the amazing results which can be achieved through commitment, community engagement and hard work.

“These awards demonstrate the value which the 11 councils and our Ulster in Bloom community groups have given in encouraging us to care for our local spaces regardless of size or location.

“Their hard work and the hours spent planning, planting and pruning make a massive positive impact on the wider environment by supporting biodiversity, conservation and sustainability which improves the quality of life for citizens in our cities, towns and villages.

“On behalf of NILGA, congratulations to everyone and thank you for your ongoing support and enthusiasm.”

If you’re interested in getting involved in the Translink Ulster in Bloom 2023 Competition contact NILGA on 028 9079 8972.