Abergavenny has won a Gold Award and has been named the Overall Winner in the Town Category of Wales in Bloom 2024 at a ceremony held in Abergavenny.
The neighbouring village of Usk also secured a set of glowing results, walking away with the Gold Award and named the winner of the Large Village category.
The accolade reflects the hard work, perseverance, and dedication of the town’s volunteers, who have worked tirelessly to beautify their respective areas.
On September, 13 the community of Abergavenny offered a warm welcome to Wales in Bloom judges and fellow recipients.
Guests had the opportunity to tour the town for the final time this year, admiring the stunning work of volunteers in Bailey Park, Laurie Jones Orchard, Castle Meadows, and Linda Vista Gardens.
“Bloomers” then attended a ceremony at the Angel Hotel to celebrate their collective achievements and recognise the contribution they have made to the wellbeing and appearance of their communities.
Several Abergavenny groups received accolades for their dedication to enhancing the beauty and biodiversity of the town. Notably, Bailey Park, Laurie Jones Community Orchard, Park and Our Lady and St Michael’s RC Primary School were awarded top honours in their respective categories.
In a historic achievement, the Friends of Bailey Park received an unprecedented three awards in the “It’s Your Neighbourhood” section, a feat never before accomplished by a single entry.
The Friends were honoured with a Wales in Bloom Community Champion award, a Level 5 “Outstanding” rating—the highest level possible—and a Distinction, a surprise award left the team elated.
Judith, a volunteer with the Friends of Bailey Park, expressed her excitement, saying: “It’s very overwhelming—an incredible honour for Bailey Park. We are all so proud!”
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Beyond this, the town continues to evolve; promising Abergavenny a bright future; the Abergavenny/Y Fenni WI’s work at the Abergavenny Railway Station was awarded Level 4 “Thriving”, Abergavenny Community Centre’s Urban Nature Garden Level 3 “Advancing” and Friends of Linda Vista Gardens, Level 3 “Advancing”.
On behalf of Abergavenny/Y Fenni WI, Julie Miles shared her delight in the Level 4 "Thriving" award, stating: “We are delighted to have been awarded so high a level at our first attempt in the "It's Your Neighbourhood" category. We will not rest on our laurels!”
The official list of awards received are:
· Bailey Park It's Your Neighbourhood (IYN)
o National Certificate of Distinction
o Wales in Bloom Champion Certificate
o Level 5 Outstanding
· Laurie Jones Community Orchard IYN
o Level 5 Outstanding
· Our Lady and St Michael School
o Joint First Place – School Garden Award
· Library Square Community Garden IYN
o Level 4 Thriving
· Park Crescent Parklet IYN
o Level 4 Thriving
· Victoria Street
o Level 4 Thriving
· Abergavenny Railway Station IYN
o Level 4 Thriving
· Abergavenny Community Centre Urban Nature Garden IYN
o Level 3 Advancing
· Friends of Linda Vista IYN
o Level 3 Advancing
· Seven Corners IYN
o Level 3 Advancing
· Sue’s Patch IYN
o Level 3 Advancing
· Castle Street United Reformed Church IYN
o Level 2 Improving
· St John’s Ambulance Hall IYN
o Level 1 Establishing
Mayor of Abergavenny, Chris Holland, expressed his gratitude to all those involved in the town’s success, saying: "The achievements of Abergavenny in this year’s Wales in Bloom Awards are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and community spirit of everyone who has played a part. From local volunteers and community groups to schools and businesses, each contribution has helped make our town a beautiful and thriving place to live and visit. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone for their incredible efforts. Abergavenny truly shines as a beacon of civic pride, and these awards reflect that.”
The day was filled with positive feedback from attendees, who praised the seamless organisation of the event and the warm hospitality of the Abergavenny community. Visitors were treated to a guided tour of the town’s stunning gardens, orchards, and meadows, accompanied by live music, refreshments, and a memorable awards ceremony at the prestigious Angel Hotel.
Feedback from guests included comments such as: "What a lovely day we had yesterday in Abergavenny! The event was so well organised, and we were treated with so much care and attention. The tour was informative, and the passion for the gardens and the environment really shone through. Thank you to everyone involved for such a memorable day." – Castle View Community Group, Caerphilly.
Abergavenny Town Council extended its gratitude to the Wales in Bloom organisers, adding: "Together, we’re making our town a greener, more vibrant place to live."
“Abergavenny’s success at this year’s Wales in Bloom awards highlights the strength of community involvement and the power of collective action inc enhancing local environments.”
Usk Town Council echoed the sentiments of Abergavenny, saying: “Well done Usk in Bloom volunteers. Superb effort in making the town look its best. Thank you, your efforts are greatly appreciated!”