Ripon has been awarded Gold at the 2025 Yorkshire in Bloom awards.
Ripon in Bloom took home Best in Category and a special Discretionary Judges’ Award for its interpretation of this year’s theme, “Dig for Victory.” The recognition highlights a city-wide effort led by Ripon in Bloom, whose volunteers contributed more than 150 hours over the past year. Their work included planting 20 barrier baskets and seven large floral containers, as well as maintaining key community spaces such as Temple Gardens, the Bike Planter, Courthouse Garden, and Bedern Bank. A wide range of local groups supported the initiative, including: Ripon City Council also provided grant support to help make the project possible. North Yorkshire Council was responsible for planting in the Market Square and at the Town Hall, as well as designing and maintaining planting schemes at Spa Gardens and the city’s roundabouts. Ripon BID provided funding for 67 hanging baskets, six barrier baskets, seven window boxes, and the Bike Planter, which brought additional colour to the city centre. Lilla Bathurst, Manager at Ripon BID, said: “I am thrilled for Ripon and its superb partnership working and cohesive community. "This award is a wonderful reflection of the teamwork and pride that make our city such a special place to live, work, and visit.” Chris Searle, Chairman of Ripon in Bloom, added: “We’re absolutely thrilled with this year’s results. "It’s a true community effort, and every volunteer, business, and resident who picked up a trowel or tidied a frontage has helped Ripon shine. "The judges were especially impressed with the teamwork and creativity shown across our city.” The judges also noted the contribution of local businesses who improved the appearance of areas outside their premises. Looking ahead, Ripon in Bloom hopes to retain Gold in 2026 and is calling for new volunteers to join its working parties. Anyone interested can get involved by contacting Ripon in Bloom via their Facebook group.
Harrogate BID celebrates another successful dog show
Specialist school for autistic pupils to open in Harrogate
Details revealed for return of Masham Tractor Run
Harrogate man attempts to smash second world record at London Marathon
Vintage tractor run raises more than £5,000 for Harrogate cancer centre
Harrogate mum runs half marathon to raise £2,400 for rare skin condition charity
Controversial expansion of Harrogate bottled water plant set for go-ahead
Ripon choristers shine in BBC's national Easter broadcast
Council plans to introduce 50p charge for public toilets
Starbeck Baths granted Asset of Community Value status
Historic Ripon Town Hall could be handed to city council
North Yorkshire Council launches legal action over road repair funding decision
Harrogate entrepreneur back in business with coeliac-safe brownies
Harrogate father-of-three to climb, cycle and run across UK in 5 days
Police appeal after 'derogatory word' spray painted onto van
Farmhouse in Harrogate celebrates seventh anniversary
Harrogate charity's shop set to feature on BBC's Shift the Thrift
New exhibition opens to mark 200 years of Harrogate's first hospital
Harrogate Brewing Co celebrates first anniversary on Royal Parade
Lightwater Valley set to introduce another new attraction
