Green fingered residents have been digging for victory at a
special event held by Whitefriars Housing Group to help Coventry in
its bid for the 2010 Britain in Bloom awards.
The Bell Green in Bloom day was held for all local residents who
fancied brightening up their balconies with flower boxes this
summer. Plants and boxes were available for residents to create
their own mini gardens free of charge and Whitefriars staff were on
hand to talk to offer general housing advice.
The event took place from 10am to 12 noon in Riley Square. Some
of the brains behind the project include resident street champions
who each look after the street in which they live to make sure any
issues, such as graffiti or anti-social behaviour, are reported to
keep the area in the best condition possible.
Junior street champion Lorraine said: "I think the event was a
great idea. Some people can't afford to spend money on flowers and
plants so giving people the chance to create their own boxes free
of charge will help to make the place look colourful. This type of
event really brings people together too."
Tracy Hill, estate officer from Whitefriars Housing Group,
added: "We are committed to creating communities in which people
are proud to live and work. This event shows how we achieved this
and encourage people to enjoy the environment, as well as helping
to increase the chances of Coventry winning the 2010 Britain in
Bloom title.
"As many of our residents live in flats in Bell Green, we
thought creating balcony boxes would be the ideal way to bring a
bit of colour to the streets and make the most of the summer."
Other activities completed by Whitefriars Housing Group to
support the Britain in Bloom bid for Coventry include planting new
trees, hedges and a wild flower area around the pond in Almond Tree
Avenue, as well as clearing and replanting land to the rear of
bungalows for older tenants living in Canley. The bungalow project
was developed with members from a Whitefriars' customer involvement
group that looks at improving estates and included new benches so
that residents they can enjoy sitting outside.