Winners of hanging basket competition announced

The winners of Charnwood's best hanging basket in the borough competition have been announced.

The competition was set up as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

First place went to Graham Goggins, who lives in Anstey, for his baskets which hang on either side of his front door.

Graham Goggins said: “Everyone in my close has hanging baskets so we have a competition between ourselves to see who can have the biggest and best basket.

“It is lovely to see everyone take part and I am very happy to win first prize. Hopefully, this will encourage more people to take part in events such as this in years to come.”

The two runner-up spots went to Watermead Day Nursery in Loughborough and resident Stuart Rosak.

Watermead Day Nursery's hanging baskets were designed in the Jubilee and Union flag colours.

The Nursery said: “We are so pleased to be a runner-up and happy to receive the voucher which will mean that the children can do planting at the nursery.

“We are hoping to keep our hanging baskets up next year and also keep our gardens neat and tidy as we want to take part in Loughborough in Bloom.”

Stuart Rosak had his mum to thank for entering him into the competition and he was unaware that he had been nominated until he received an unexpected phone call.

Stuart Rosak said: “A massive thank you to my mum for entering me as I would never have done it myself.

“I have been maintaining my hanging baskets for years after it was passed onto me from my mum, and it is great to be recognised.

“Maintaining your garden and hanging baskets is a wonderful thing to do, especially for your well-being.”