THERE was an air of nervous excitement among residents of Ovington as judges for Northumbria in Bloom were escorted on a guided tour of the village.
It is the first time the village has entered the competition, however, villagers were already talking about ways to make further improvements for next year’s competition.
Ovington Parish Council chairman Cllr Nigel Parkes said: “We have entered the small village category.
“It’s something which the parish council had talked about for years, but it was always believed we would never stand a chance of winning. But we decided just to give it a go.”
The parish led initiative to enter has seen the community come together with 25 households sponsoring raised tubs, which are dotted around the green.
Verges on the edge of the village have been trimmed back and colourful bedding plants also adorned the village’s signage.
Village residents were also encouraged to spruce up their gardens and the Union Jack Flag, raised on the Maypole, was also given a wash for the occasion.
Cllr Parkes added: “It’s been a real community effort. We didn’t want to do a theme. Each household took care of their tub so it is a real reflection of everyone here.”
The results of the competition will be announced on September 26.
