How to grow a winning entry

 

What the judges will want to see (and not see!)

 

Judges are looking for the best, so don't hesitate to show them your showpiece areas. Most entries also have less attractive areas and the judges will want to see the efforts being made for the longer-term future to improve eyesores and to disguise gap sites. In particular, no part of the entry should be littered and an active effort should be made to eliminate graffiti.

 

Your entry has been selected to compete against the best from other nations/regions. The Britain in Bloom UK finals will aim to provide a transparent assessment of your entry.

 

Medals will be awarded in the following categories:

 

Gold An exceptionally high standard demonstrated throughout. A consistent approach that demonstrates both best practice and sustainable effort. Meets all of the judging criteria and objectives of Britain in Bloom and scores very highly in each section of the judging criteria.

Silver-Gilt A high standard entry that meets the judging criteria and objectives of Britain in Bloom, including sections of exceptionally high standard. Generally meets sustainable and quality thresholds, but these may not be entirely consistent throughout the area. Offers potential to be a Gold Medal winner in the future.

Silver Considered to be an above-average entry that meets most of the judging criteria and objectives of Britain in Bloom. The entry will include more than one section that demonstrates exceptionally high standards. In particular, the entry will demonstrate good sustainable standards and the potential to progress to Silver-Gilt standard.

Bronze An average entry that meets most but not necessarily all of the judging criteria and objectives of Britain in Bloom. The entry will include at least one section that demonstrates an exceptional standard. In general, the entry will meet acceptable sustainable standards and the potential to progress to Silver standard.

No Award The entry may have a number of good merits and could well be the best area in its population size from the region. However, the entry has not met a sufficiently developed standard as required to achieve any of the Britain in Bloom medals.

 

What to do prior to the judges arrival
The judging route

 

1. Consider the use of a five-minute video or presentation/speech during coffee or at the start of the visit to illustrate winter work or pre-visit activities (don't however, turn it into a full length feature film!). The judges will wish to discuss your portfolio at this time and an additional 10 minutes maximum has been allocated for this purpose.

 

2. Prepare an itinerary and map to give the judges on arrival which clearly highlights the judging route.

 

3. When preparing the judging schedule, bear in mind that, if you can cover the route alone in an hour, on the day of judging it could take at least one and a half to two hours. If you are using vehicles, valuable time can be lost if you frequently ask the judging party to get in and out to look at specific areas which can't be viewed from the vehicle. You will also need to bear in mind that the judges will also stop to take notes and photographs so, for the benefit of your entry please allow for this, if you don't, you may find that you only make it half way round when the clock stops.

 

4. Ensure that there is a 'photo-opportunity' for the media/press etc. The judges will be happy to answer questions and be photographed but try to keep this to one location if you can. As this is an important area of profile building, an additional 15 minutes has again been allocated for this.

 

5. If transport is required make the necessary arrangements well in advance. Vehicles should have good visibility. Make sure you know who will travel with whom and whether more than one vehicle will be needed.

 

6. The judges will expect to be accompanied through the tour by a maximum of four people, each of whom should be competent to answer questions so, decide in advance who your four representatives will be.

 

7. When planning the route, go through the information above to ensure you are showing the judges everything they will want to see.