One of our colleagues has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to community gardening

One of our colleagues has been honoured with a special award for his long standing commitment to supporting community gardening projects across the Midlands.  

Paul Edwards, one of our Community Engagement Officers, received a Merit Award for Outstanding Services to Heart of England in Bloom at the RHS It’s Your Neighbourhood Awards, part of the national Britain in Bloom campaign.  

The award recognises Paul’s 12 years of dedication to helping our customers and communities transform shared spaces through gardening.  Over the years, Paul has supported dozens of residents’ groups to enter their communal gardens into the RHS It’s Your Neighbourhood scheme, helping them gain national recognition for their work.  

Paul said: “I was completely shocked when they called my name.  Each year, I’ve hoped to see one of our amazing gardens, like Warndon Community Garden, Merrick House or Newtown Green in Worcester, take home an award for their consistent hard work, so it was a real surprise to be recognised personally.  The real winners though are our customers; these awards celebrate the volunteers who take so much pride in their communities.”  

Since first entering Droitwich Community Garden 12 years ago, Paul has helped expand our involvement across Worcester, Malvern, Ledbury and beyond, with gardens regularly achieving the top level Outstanding rating.  This year alone, 12 gardens from Worcester were entered, with seven achieving Level 5 Outstanding, four Thriving and one Establishing.  

Paul added: “Getting involved with RHS It’s Your Neighbourhood gives our residents a sense of pride and achievement.  It brings people together, improves local environments and complements the great work done by our Grounds Maintenance and Community teams.  It’s all about collaboration, wellbeing and community spirit.”  

The It’s Your Neighbourhood scheme recognises voluntary efforts that make a positive impact on local green spaces, focusing on horticultural achievement, community participation and environmental responsibility.  

Chris Pinson-Bradley, our Community Engagement Manager said: “We’re incredibly proud of Paul’s achievement and the difference he’s made through his community work.  His passion for helping residents take pride in their homes and neighbourhoods has inspired so many people and had a lasting impact on communities across the regions.”  

In addition to his award Paul has been invited by the RHS to join the judging panel for future Heart of England in Bloom awards, a recognition of his expertise and enthusiasm for community led greening projects. 

Photo caption : Paul Edwards receives a Merit Award for Outstanding Services to Heart of England in Bloom, recognising more than a decade of supporting residents to transform communal gardens across the Midlands.