THIRTEEN might be an unlucky number for Ledbury in Bloom this year, because a run of success that has seen 12 Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) golds for the town might be about to grind to a halt.

Ledbury in Bloom chairman, Clive Gunn, said winning gold would be "very much more difficult" in 2019.

This is because the RHS has changed its rules, with community involvement key to attracting the judges's marks. The general tidiness of the town has also been identified as a problem area.

Ledbury in Bloom is looking to double its total of volunteers in 2019, to keep to winning ways, but it might be an uphill struggle.

Ledbury in Bloom chairman, Clive Gunn said: "Currently there is a core of 12 regulars who are always available when we need them plus another six who are sometimes available. This week we have had two new recruits.

"Ideally I would like to double the total to 36 and we could cope nicely, but realistically any extra hands would be appreciated especially if they don't mind the non-horticultural jobs."

But a change in focus brings new challenges.

Mr Gunn said: "In an ideal world, the streets would be relatively tidy and weed free throughout the year, not just for judging day. We should be able to come along and add or remove a few things to make the streets look pretty and at their best. To be honest, other factors mentioned in last year's judges notes were dog mess and out of date signs on posts and telegraph posts!

"Last year was worse than some as Ledbury had been very busy, which has pluses and minuses; one reason for choosing a later date this year, Monday July 29."

He added: "In response to changes in the RHS marking scheme, Ledbury in Bloom have produced a brochure which highlights the areas that they currently look after and ways that everyone can get involved and help to keep Ledbury ‘Blooming Beautiful’.

“We recently attended the Annual Spring Seminar of Heart Of England in Bloom and our worst fears were confirmed, but we hope that this document will give everyone an opportunity to be a part of continued success. The main thing that we need is more people to be involved. You don’t need to be green-fingered but to be honest, it helps."

However, horticulture now accounts for only forty percent of the points required to win a gold medal. The rest of the points are judged mainly on the level of community involvement and the overall cleanliness of the town covering such things as litter, signage and street furniture.

Ledbury in Bloom is a twelve times RHS gold medal winner, from 2006 to 2018.

Further details: https://ledburyinbloom.wordpress.com/