The 2025 Main Competition Entry Form to download can be found here.
2024 South West In Bloom Main Competition
Many Congratulations to all our Bloom 2024 entrants and a big thank you to all involved for their hard work, passion, time and commitment in helping to make the South West region blooming wonderful!
The 2024 South West In Bloom Main Competition Results and Special Discreationary Awards can be found here!
Main Competition South West Regional Judging takes place during the month of July.
Current marking - 40% of the marks will be awarded for Horticulture, 30% for Environment and 30% for Community, (previous allocation - 50% Horticulture, 25% Environment and 25% Community).
Click here to download the Frequently Asked Questions sheet - this will help explain what has changed over the years with the judging criteria and why.
This additional emphasis on the environment reflects the fact that Bloom groups are working in increasingly challenging environmental conditions. The recent summer droughts highlight the important frontline work all Bloom groups are doing to mitigate environmental challenges.
Today Britain In Bloom is predominantly managed by volunteers, with fewer councils less able to support their local Bloom projects and groups. By increasing the marks available for community, we can recognise the efforts of these hard working groups and help celebrate the community spirit that is at the heart of Bloom.
Protecting the environment and improving the local community are often highly motivating factors, particularly for young people. In the long term we hope that the increased emphasis on these factors, will help to encourage a wider and diverse range of volunteers to become involved and support Bloom to grow.
South West In Bloom Pennant Category
For those entries new to Bloom, some groups prefer to start their Bloom journey by entering our Pennant Class. These were first trialed in 2013 and due to their great success South West In Bloom have continued with the Pennant scheme, with many Bloom Groups then progressing on to the Main Competiton. Entry is free for all 'new entries', and there is no portfolio required. As with Main Competition entries there is 1/4 hr for press and 1/4 for a presentation (if entries wish to do one). For the village to small town category, there is an additional 1.5 hours and town to cities, an additional 2 hours for judging. The Pennant category is also aimed at Bloom Groups that we may have lost over the years, and is intended as a gentle step back into the Main Competition. The Pennant criteria is also more relaxed and there is less to meet, the awards and scoring are slightly different to reflect this. All new entrants will be provided with help and advice if needed, we can also offer mentor support to provide guidance in preparing for the judging tour.
For queries and further info, please contact the SWIB Regional Coordinator.
T: 07875 849809. Email: southwestinbloom1@outlook.com