by Gráinne Connolly
The Mayor of Derry and Strabane District Council, Councillor Maolíosa McHugh has welcomed 'Gold' for the prestigious Britain in Bloom awards, and says they're 'blooming with pride'.
The success was announced at an awards ceremony held in Llandudno, North Wales on Friday evening, hosted by TV presenter and renowned garden designer James Alexander-Sinclair.
Mayor McHugh said:
"To pick up a Gold award in this prestigious competition is testament to the hard work and dedication of both Council staff and local communities - who have done so much to transform the city into greener, cleaner and more beautiful spaces for everyone to enjoy.
"As a Gold winner, the city has demonstrated to the judges an exceptionally high standard - demonstrating best practice, continuing development and sustainable effort.
"Indeed, this well-deserved recognition serves to confirm Derry as one of the greenest and most beautiful cities in these islands.
"I therefore hope that this success will encourage more visitors to what is such a bright and welcoming city.
Derry and Strabane Council's Ground Maintenance Manager, Danny McCartney attended the ceremony in Wales:
"To have been named as a Gold award winner in the 'small city' category is really fantastic for everyone involved.
"We all feel a great sense of pride in achieving such a prestigious award.
"A huge amount of creativity and dedication goes into our floral displays and open spaces throughout the city and district.
“I would therefore like to take this opportunity to thank all who participated in, and helped to achieve this award – and in doing so create an attractive place for people to live in as well as welcome visitors.
“In particular, I would like to highlight the work of the Cleansing Department – whom the judges awarded their first 100% mark to.
“Indeed, the exceptional standards of our floral displays and open spaces are down to the dedication and hard work of so many people who continue to ensurethat Derry looks at its very best.”
Between them, this year’s Britain in Bloom finalists planted over a million trees, bulbs and other plants, transforming villages, towns and cities into green havens that lift people’s spirits and improve their wellbeing.
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