READING has been given Gold and Silver Gilt awards at this year’s Royal Horticultural Society’s Thames and Chilterns In Bloom.
The community gardening competition saw Reading’s Caversham Court given the gold accolade for Best Park 2022, which recognised the gardens as the best in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire.
Judges praised its history, noting its “specimen” trees and restored gazebo.
They said also that, despite its size, it “provides for a wide range of visitors– it is an excellent example of a green space with a high standard of horticultural and arboricultural management and maintenance.”
They also praised the community allotments as providing “a valuable resource for wellbeing and The Friends Group, which “provides a wealth of historical knowledge to the local community and it’s organised walks throughout the year.”
The Henley Road Crematorium won a silver gilt for its grounds during the awards.
The judges highlighted the “careful and sensitive” layout of the grounds, the attractive planting, mature trees, the rewilded areas managed as habitats for specific species, and its sustainability measures.”
Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Neighbourhoods and Communities, said: “These awards are great achievements for Reading and something we should be very proud of.
“To achieve both Gold and Silver Gilt Awards in the Thames and Chilterns in Bloom is fantastic news for the town– I would like to say a big thank you to everyone involved.
“Following on from its impressive Green Flag & Green Award Heritage Site Awards this summer, Caversham Court Gardens has rightfully been highlighted by the judges as the best park in the entire region.
“Those that know and love the Park know it is one of our best-kept secrets.”
She continued: “The Gold Award is a clear reflection of the hard work and dedication put in by both the Council’s staff and the dedicated volunteer Friends group throughout the year to ensure this site remains amongst Reading’s most treasured open spaces.
“I’m particularly pleased to see Henley Road Cemetery gaining further well-deserved recognition with its Silver Gilt Award for its sensitive displays, rewilded habitats and engagement with the communities it serves.
“The award is truly a testament to successful joint cooperation and work between the parks and bereavement teams.”
