Farnham has once again flourished in an annual competition, securing multiple top awards across various categories.

At this year’s South & South East in Bloom, Farnham received the coveted gold and was overall winner in the Town/City Centre category. Gostrey Meadow was also awarded gold & overall winner in the Small Park category.

In the Small Cemetery/Crematorium category, Hale Cemetery and Badshot Lea Cemetery were recognised, with Hale Cemetery securing Gold, and Badshot Lea Cemetery taking home the gold & overall winner title.

West Street Cemetery, Farnham’s largest burial space, competed in the Large Cemetery/Crematorium category. It was honoured with a Gold award, marking its distinction as a well-maintained public space.

Councillor Mat Brown, lead member for environment, said: “We are incredibly proud of these achievements. Receiving these prestigious accolades demonstrates the dedication of our community, volunteers, and council staff to making Farnham a welcoming, green, and sustainable town.

“These spaces are important to the quality of life in Farnham, and we are thrilled to see them recognised at such a high level. I would like to thank all our sponsors and in particular our 2024 Gold sponsors for helping us to achieve Gold. They are The Patio Blackspot Removal Company, BBS Ltd and Squire’s Garden Centre.

“My heartfelt thanks also go to all the volunteers, local businesses, community groups, and residents who contributed to these remarkable accomplishments.”

In addition to Farnham in Bloom’s success, six independent community projects also caught the eye of the judges.

In the ‘Our Community’ category, space2grow won silver gilt and in the ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ awards. There was a hat trick of outstanding awards for Badshot Lea Bloomers, Farnham Community Rail Volunteers and Bourne Conservation.

Hale Community Centre was recognised as thriving and the Bourne Beautification Project as advancing.