Downham Grange care home resident and lifelong gardener John Chapman wins In Bloom prize

A resident from Downham Grange care home has won first prize in one of the categories of Downham in Bloom.

John Chapman got the top spot in the competition’s community group container category.

Mr Chapman, who was born in Methwold, is a lifelong gardener, making him the perfect person to organise the care home’s entry.

Mr Chapman worked with Wendy Greeves, activities coordinator at the Kingsley Healthcare care home, to create the display.

The two used containers and plants which were donated by staff, families and the local community.

The judges from the town council were impressed by the bright displays of his entry and its creative use of a donated boat.

As well as sharing his wisdom and giving advice on the presentation of the displays, Mr Chapman has also taken an active role in overseeing the whole of the care home’s garden.

One particular highlight of the garden is a thriving vegetable plot, which has already produced some delicious courgettes to the delight of fellow residents.

Town council administrator Jo Andrews said: “Schools take part in our In Bloom competition as well as local businesses.

“We would love to get more involved next year. The contest is a fabulous idea and gives us a town we can be suitably proud of.”

Downham in Bloom was organised as part of Britain in Bloom, which is run by the Royal Horticultural Society and is the largest campaign in Europe, involving more than a thousand communities each year.

Reporting by Amelia Platt