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  • "Does this have to be organised by the Town Council? As Feelingsmatter says most of the work was already done by volunteers: we have a lot of keen gardeners in Abingdon and many active clubs and societies. If enough people think its important, why don't a few people - hopefully including some/all of those previously involved get together to discuss what would be needed and put a plan together? They could either set up a specific group for it or do it under the auspices of one of the existing group. I wouldn't mind betting that some Town Council or JET funding would be available if a proper case was made."
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Bloom competition wilts away

Former winner Barry Staite Former winner Barry Staite

ABINGDON’S annual floral contest has been called off, with organisers blaming the hosepipe ban for wilting entries.

Abingdon Town Council had only received nine entries for this year’s Abingdon in Bloom.

Jan Morter, a former member of the Abingdon in Bloom committee, said it was a disappointment.

She added: “The contest raises the profile of Abingdon. It’s a miserable summer and some flora and fauna is something people appreciate.

“People didn’t bother planting, because they thought they may not be able to water them.”

But she said enthusiasm in town had waned, adding: “You can’t really force something if the public don’t really want it.

“If there were more people on the committee, it might have made a difference. Only two people volunteered to be on the committee, which shows it doesn’t have the backing of the council.”

But Eleanor Dangerfield, chairman of the Tythe Farm and Ladygrove Residents’ Association, said: “I don’t know if it’s the weather. I visited an open garden and it looked great, despite the weather.

“If they had publicised it more, they could have got more entries.”

Former winner Barry Staite, 72, of Galley Field, said the council had been trying hard but it was restricted by finances.

The council has also decided not to enter the national Britain in Bloom competition for the second year running.

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