York St John University triumphs at Yorkshire In Bloom 2015

The results were announced on 8 September and the Grounds team won the two awards for their range of both traditional and contemporary planting schemes across the campus. They came top in the Universities, Colleges and Further Education Establishments category, ahead of the Universities of Hull and Bradford.

Colin Parkin, Director of Facilities, said: “Our fantastic Grounds team, as a result of their total dedication and hard work in all weathers have pulled the rabbit out of the hat yet again by winning a Gold Award and, for the first time, Best in Category resulting in York St John beating previous winners Bradford and Hull which the team have had in their sights for some time!

“The judges made particular references to the ‘holistic approach the team had taken to the management of the University’s 100 acres in terms of sustainability and ecology’ and comment on the ‘enchanting lawned vistas, traditional and contemporary mixed flower beds adjacent to award-winning buildings in a historic context at the heart of a busy thriving city.’ How lucky are we to work in such a fantastic environment?”

Rob Scott, Head Gardener, said: “I am immensely proud to be head gardener at York St John University. We could not have achieved these awards without the hard work of our team of gardeners and associated colleagues.”