York St John win gold at the Yorkshire in Bloom awards

York St John University’s gardeners are celebrating having achieved gold medal award status at this year’s Yorkshire in Bloom competition, announced at a special ceremony on 17 September.

The University’s Lord Mayor’s Walk campus was up against a number of the region’s educational institutions, but pipped many others to the post to receive one of the prestigious gold awards. On announcing them as gold medal winners, the judging panel were full of praise for the high standards of horticultural cleanliness, sustainability and maintenance that describe York St John’s garden areas.

Rob Scott, Head Gardener at York St John University said:
“I’m privileged to have the position of Head Gardener at York St John University and it gives me immense pride to manage such a dedicated, conscientious and knowledgeable team of gardeners. We work hard to achieve the highest standards not just for the competition but for the benefit of the York St John University community as a whole throughout the year.

He added:
“The gold award is the icing on the cake and a credit to every member of the team for all their hard work.”

A team of six gardeners are responsible for the maintenance of the York St John University sites. They also look after internal floral displays, snow clearing and gritting, as well as the upkeep of the artificial and natural turf for sports and recreation.

Yorkshire in Bloom is a voluntary regional organisation that administers the Britain in Bloom Campaign in the region. Special categories include public, private and charitable establishments, business premises, visitor attractions, caravan and camping sites, youth environmental projects and further education establishments.