We have been in existence since 1983, largely funded by grants from Councils in our regions. We were granted charitable status on 5th February 2007 (Registered No 1117828), and this has helped us broaden the scope of our work. Our main purpose is to engage with groups in Cumbria, encouraging participation in a range of competitions that promote improvement of horticulture, floriculture and environmental issues in our region.

Closely following Britain in Bloom’s campaign guidelines, our cohorts of judges visit all projects over the summer to evaluate achievement and offer guidance. In September each year, an awards ceremony is held to recognise and publicise the efforts of those who have taken part. We also nominate finalists for national recognition in the Britain in Bloom Competition.

There are a variety of ways for organisations and individuals to get involved and support the charity, for example you may wish to sponsor Cumbria in Bloom or give a donation. You may find that using ‘gift aid’ is advantageous. There are a number of other ways to get involved too, for example becoming a member, a trustee or a volunteer. In addition, you may want to find out more by attending one of our events.

If you are interested in taking part in our competitions or wish to support Cumbria in Bloom in any way, please contact our administrator, Liz Auld: lizhauld@gmail.com

Linked closely to the guidelines of the RHS Britain in Bloom campaign we arrange competitions, support the RHS “It’s Your Neighbourhood” assessment scheme, run a Schools Gardening Competition and one for tourism businesses. And to cap it all we nominate finalists into Britain in Bloom for national recognition.

As a registered charity we are a group of volunteers who believe that if you appreciate where you live you will want to work with others to make a difference and show pride. Cumbria in Bloom started out decades ago when life was simpler and councils had resources to put into all sorts of maintenance and horticultural projects. Competitive entries were received from many communities of all sizes keen to get awards at an annual ceremony.

Today the purpose is the same but the emphasis is on recognising that if you want to feel proud of where you are it is likely individuals or groups will get together to make things happen. Cumbria in Bloom seeks to engage with communities…

Dalston enters the Cumbria in Bloom competition in the large village category every year with the help of many volunteers, both individual and groups, sponsors, friends, businesses, Capsticks Nursery, Wigton Town Council, Carlisle City Council and Dalston Parish Council. With all the efforts everyone makes we have won cups, certificates and individual awards. Every year they are on show in the village for parishioners to see for a while after the Cumbria in Bloom awards ceremony. In 1916, 1917 and 1918 we were put forward to enter Britain in Bloom. The first year we won a Silver Gilt medal, in 2018 and 2019 we were awarded a Gold medal. Well done to all those involved.