Mid and East Antrim victorious in Translink ‘Ulster in Bloom’ competition

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is celebrating success after winning five awards at this year’s ‘Ulster in Bloom’ competition.

A special results ceremony took place in Mossley Mill – Newtownabbey, with the competition attracting 142 entries representing all 11 local council areas. .

Ballymena bagged first place in the Best Large Town/Small City Award with Cullybackey receiving first place in the Best Large Village Award and Ahoghill receiving second place in the Best Small Town Award.

Whitehead placed first in the Floral Station Award with Glenarm ranking third in the Best Village Award.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Maureen Morrow, said: “This is fantastic news for the borough. It is tremendous to see the energy and enthusiasm that so many people have put into their local towns and villages.

“By actively supporting our ‘In Bloom’ campaign and community competitions, residents have not only brightened their area of the Borough but they have again achieved success in these prestigious awards.

“I would like to thank all the volunteers, council staff, schools and organisations across Mid and East Antrim for their hard work which has clearly paid off.”

Translink Board Member, Dr Mark Sweeney OBE, said: “Congratulations to all our 2019 Translink Ulster in Bloom winners and runners-up! You have created the most stunning plant and floral displays, showcasing your areas and making Northern Ireland a more attractive place to live, visit and work.

“Our thanks to all the local councils, businesses, community groups and Translink employees who have worked so hard to improve their local area and make such a positive lasting impression on both local people and visitors.”

The Translink Ulster in Bloom Competition is co-ordinated by the Northern Ireland local Government Association (NILGA). Councillor Frances Burton, President, Northern Ireland Local Government Association, said:“As NILGA’s President, I would like to thank everyone who supports Translink Ulster in Bloom for championing the “In Bloom” message of councils, local committees, residents and businesses, coming together to take pride in the places where you live and work, creating a better environment for everyone to share.”