Wickham strikes gold in first ever South & South East in Bloom entry
The village of Wickham is celebrating a remarkable achievement after being awarded a Gold in its very first entry to the South and South-East in Bloom (SSEIB) regional competition. The Wickham in Bloom initiative began less than a year ago, growing from a simple idea into a community-wide effort that transformed the village’s green spaces, streets, and public areas.
“Entering Wickham for In Bloom has been an incredible journey,” said Heather Reid, Chairperson of Wickham in Bloom. “We went from the idea first being suggested to being judged in less than a year. As this was our first year entering, and with no previous experience, we didn’t know what to expect — we certainly didn’t dream that we could get a Gold!”
The small but dedicated Wickham in Bloom team committee— made up of local residents — took the lead on everything from litter picking and weeding, cleaning, planting and enhancing key areas around the village. The Wickham in Bloom committee members are Jan Adamthwaite, Malcolm Adamthwaite, Becky Rosamond, Eliza Bailey, Rosemary Crane, Kate Turnbull, Colin Fielder, Audrey Errington and Lindsay Glasspool.
But Heather is quick to emphasise that the recognition belongs to the whole community.
“This really is an award for the entire village,” she said. “It recognises the efforts of the many volunteers, individuals, and groups who already do so much in Wickham — the litter pickers, the churchyard and Community Garden volunteers, the Men’s Shed, the History Society, and even the lady who crochets the postbox toppers! We also thank everyone who Adopted a Spot, sponsored a planter, or took pride in their front gardens.”
The Wickham in Bloom team also expressed gratitude to Wickham and Knowle Parish Council for their support by donating a grant, practical help and collaboration throughout the project.
“We’ve been told that this was the first time in 25 years that a Gold has been awarded to a first-time entrant in a main category,” Heather added. “That’s an incredible compliment to our community and the spirit that drives it.”
Looking ahead, Wickham in Bloom hopes to grow its volunteer base and continue building on this year’s success.
“We would love to hear from anyone who would like to get involved going forward,” said Heather.
As part of the celebrations, Heather Reid has been invited to speak about Wickham in Bloom at the Wickham Society event on the 14th of April 2026, sharing insights from the village’s first-year success and inspiring others to take part in future projects.