SOUTH West in Bloom judges Lesley Jelleyman and Barbara Hannan visited Minehead on Wednesday (July 15) with the town hoping to keep hold of the Sargent Cup Gold Award status it has received in each of the past two years.

The judging provided an opportunity for town councillors to showcase the many projects, people, and partnerships which have helped to make the town a vibrant and thriving community.

The South West in Bloom competition celebrates horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility, and community involvement across the region.

Throughout the day, the two judges were shown a wide range of initiatives taking place across Minehead, highlighting the contribution made by local volunteers, community organisations, businesses, and residents.

Their visit demonstrated how people from across the town work together to care for public spaces, support wildlife, improve the local environment, and create opportunities for the wider community.

Colourful planting displays remain an important part of the South West in Bloom programme, but Minehead’s 2026 entry reflected a much broader story.

From community groups maintaining green spaces and leading environmental projects, to volunteers supporting local events and litter-picking initiatives, the town’s success has been built on the dedication and commitment of local people.

The visit of the judging team was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and demonstrate the positive impact which community collaboration has had across the town.

Mayor of Minehead, Cllr Craig Palmer, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the South West in Bloom judges to Minehead and to have the opportunity to showcase the incredible work taking place throughout our community.

“The visit was about much more than flowers and planting schemes.

“It was a chance to highlight the dedication of our volunteers, community groups, local businesses, and residents who work so hard throughout the year to make a positive difference to the town.

“Minehead benefits from an enormous amount of community involvement, and we are grateful to everybody who gives their time and energy to support local projects, care for the environment, and help create a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.”

Cllr Palmer said the town council wanted to thank all those who had helped with this year’s South West in Bloom entry and the many individuals and organisations who had contributed to the judging day.

He said thanks were also extended to the volunteers whose ongoing efforts helped to enhance the town all the year round and made Minehead a place of which the community could be proud.

Cllr Palmer said: “While the council looks forward to hearing the judges’ feedback, the real achievement lies in the dedication of the volunteers, community groups, businesses, and residents whose efforts help Minehead thrive throughout the year.”

This year’s South West in Bloom competition results will be announced at an awards presentation to be held in October.

South West in Bloom is one of 17 regional competitions that make up the Royal Horticultural Society’s Britain in Bloom, which is the largest horticultural campaign in Europe.