Shrewsbury in Bloom Committee

The main objective of the Shrewsbury in Bloom Committee is to provide a forum for discussion and action. It co-ordinates advice from various sources so that strategy aims and specific action may be achieved across the community spectrum.

Stimulating local interest in conserving and enhancing our environment is a fundamental aim of the committee, as is encouraging active partnership between all sectors of the community, and generating a sense of civic pride.

The committee acts as a stakeholder for any new ideas and projects for development of the town and its surroundings, and makes recommendations to Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council (or any other relevant party) as to their implementation.

During February 2005 the Committee was reviewed and streamlined, with a new constitution approved by the Council's Cabinet in March 2005.  It now consists of 12 members, each with specialist areas of responsibility.  This new formation is more effective and is tasked with gaining further community involvement wherever possible. 

The Committee members are: 

• Tony Bywater MBE (Chairman) (Planning, PR Co-ordination)
  Chamber of Commerce, Salop Caravans, Tidy Shrewsbury Group
• Councillor Judith Williams (Co-ordination, Planning and Events)
  Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Shrewsbury in Bloom
• Derek Caddy (Treasurer) (Co-ordination)
  Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council (Public Amenities Manager), Tidy Shrewsbury Group
• Gary Farmer (Secretary) (Planning and Operational)
  Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council (Horticultural Services Manager)
• Margaret Thrower (Community and Co-ordination)
  Percy Throwers Garden Centre, Friends of Shrewsbury in Bloom
• Richard Cooper (Project and Events)
  Shropshire Horticultural Society
• Martin Ford (Project and Events)
  Radio Shropshire, Horticultural Advisor
• Brian Howard (Project and Events)
  Dobbies Garden Centre, Horticultural Advisor
• Councillor Joyce Allaway (Community and Competitions)
  School Liaison and Community Group Representative 
• Councillor Jackie Brennand (Community and Competitions)
  Schools Liaison and Community Group Representative 
• John Edwards (Sponsorship)
  Floral Sponsorship organiser 
• Stan Sedman MBE (Liaison Role, PR, Sponsorship Projects)
  Tidy Shrewsbury Chairman, Bloomin Bracket Co-ordinator
• Philip Davies (Public Relations)
  Photographer, Co-opted Member

How is Shrewsbury in Bloom Funded?

The Shrewsbury in Bloom Committee generates income from actively marketing and promoting floral sponsorship, targeting both national and local companies. Floral sponsorship enables companies to show the public they care about our environment, their sense of civic pride and encourage others to share the responsibility of keeping standards in our county town at the highest level.

Funding is has also been secured through the close working relationship of the committee and Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council. A two-year investment programme will fund infrastructure improvements including floral features and assistance with community projects and schools.

A small group of dedicated individuals, Friends of Shrewsbury in Bloom, assist by providing funds for special community projects. They also donate to and organise events to popularise Shrewsbury in Bloom and generate income, such as raffles, competitions and open days.