A COMMUNITY group set up to improve the look of the local area has been officially recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Wanting to do something to improve the look of the town, Stephen Mousdell has worked tirelessly to revamp flower boxes, replace planters and plant an arrangement of flowers across St Helens and Haydock.

With partner Kev Poole later joining the project, the pair expanded their idea into an official project called 'Haydock and St Helens In Bloom', so that they could receive donations to cover more areas.

With years of diligent hard work across St Helens and Haydock, and growing support from the local community, the group has now been officially recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society, which is the leading gardening charity in the UK.

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Stephen started his blooming project back in 2021Stephen started his blooming project back in 2021 (Image: Haydock and St Helens in Bloom) Now on the official Royal Horticultural Society map, the group has been awarded a Level 3 Advancing Award, which provides gardeners with specialised knowledge skills to further boost and improve their projects.

With the awards encouraging annual progression in local projects, Kev and Stephen's plans are to go "bigger and brighter" with their displays.

With an increasing amount of effort put into the infrastructure and installation of their projects this year, their plans are to map out more and more vibrant designs across the area. A recent grant of £2,000 grant from St Helens Council will also help to continue their growing project.
 The group work tirelessly to brighten up the area around Haydock and St HelensThe group work tirelessly to brighten up the area around Haydock and St Helens (Image: Haydock and St Helens in Bloom)

Speaking about the award, Kev said: "[This is] not bad at all for our first entry and we’re absolutely over the moon with it!

"A huge thank you to Bernard Pendleton for bringing our attention to the award ceremonies.

"But above all a massive thank you to each and every one of you who have supported the project over the last few years; individuals, volunteers and businesses alike."

Areas in Haydock are constantly update in fresh and colourful designsAreas in Haydock are constantly update in fresh and colourful designs (Image: Haydock and St Helens in Bloom) More information about Haydock and St Helens in Bloom can be found here.