Literature and horticulture cross-pollinated on Thursday to create an extra special launch of Farnham in Bloom 2022.
The Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Alan Earwaker welcomed guests to the first ‘in person’ launch event for three years. He announced the exciting news that Farnham is representing the south east in the Large Town category of Britain Bloom this year as well as entering five categories in South & South East in Bloom.
He also introduced author Al Campbell who later went on to officially launch his debut novel, The Daisy Chain set around the founding of Kew Gardens in the 18th century.
The Mayor told guests: “We are looking forward to another successful year of Farnham in Bloom. As always, none of this could be achieved without the army of volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, schools and council staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes to expand and improve Bloom year on year.
“From nurturing over 50,000 plug plants annually, making up 250 hanging baskets, 70 planters, litter picks and taking part in competitions such as the Secret Gardens of Farnham, there is something for everyone.”
The Mayor also spoke about the sunflower – Ukraine’s unofficial national symbol and the symbol for Farnham in Bloom, and how it created a connection and an emblem of hope for the future.
Iain Lynch, Town Clerk at Farnham Town Council thanked Sarah Squire and her team for hosting the launch at Squire’s Garden Centre in Badshot Lea and acknowledged that Farnham in Bloom would not be the success it is without support from sponsors and local businesses.
Principal sponsor Simon Essex from The Patio Blackspot Removal Co commented that: “We have been involved as sponsors for many years and are delighted to have been the Principal sponsor for the past two years. We are constantly impressed with the achievements of you all as volunteers and supporters of Farnham in Bloom. The impressive achievements of Farnham in Bloom over the past decade speak for themselves, and we hope for further success in the years ahead. Well done to you all.”
Farnham in Bloom is also supported by gold sponsors Squire’s Garden Centre, BBS Ltd and Pivot and silver sponsors Net Technical Solutions, Wildflower Turf, Bush Hotel, Hamilton’s Tea House, Farnham Farmers’ Market and the Farnham Institute Charity.
The launch included an introduction to Al Campbell’s novel. The Daisy Chain with dramatised readings. An absorbing tale set in the upper echelons of Georgian society the novel describes how Sir Joseph Banks, botanist, and patron of the natural sciences made a mark in the founding of Kew in a novel of mystery, adventure and romance.
Anybody who wishes to find out how to get involved in this year’s Farnham in Bloom can email bloom@farnham.gov.uk or visit www.farnham.gov.uk/bloom.
