The city managed to win over Britain in Bloom judges when they visited the city in July. For ten years running, until 1997, Oxford secured the regional title. This year's entry was sponsored by the Oxford Mail. It demonstrates the strength of the part played by everyone in the community who really got behind our Britain in Bloom entry. The role of the Oxford Mail in supporting Oxford in Bloom and helping to publicise the initiative has meant that more people entered the city's own gardening competition and played their part in improving our environment.
Judges look for more than impressive floral displays.
Marks are also awarded for community initiatives and business involvement in projects to improve the local environment. Doug Loveridge, team leader for Florence Park, said the win was a credit to the team work that goes on behind the scenes. Oxford is now waiting to hear whether it will be selected to go through to the national final next year.