Hidden away in Orchard Park lies an unassuming piece of land, the potential of which was only realised after it was converted into a tranquil community garden by local resident and eco-warrior, Jeannie Webster.
Since its discovery in 1998, the Rainbow Garden has been nurtured into a place for the whole community to enjoy. And 20 years later, the garden has finally been given the recognition it deserved.
As Hull in Bloom marks its 29th year, meet the team who won the title for Hull in Bloom 2018.
Jeannie, a volunteer who runs the Rainbow Garden in Levisham Close, was keen to create a peaceful space that was accessible to all.
She said: “We’ve been working in this busy north Hull community for many years, with the sole mission to bring some sense of joy to everyone who visits.
Blooms of freedom flame tulips
“It’s an incredibly special place and we were delighted to have won the title for Hull in Bloom 2018. We want to be able to share this hidden gem with the city and its wonderful residents.”
The Rainbow Garden already attracts visitors from schools and social service users to members of the youth justice system.
It is hoped that a summer approaches, more people will make use of the green space.
Andrew Wilson, parks and open spaces manager at Hull City Council, said: “Hull in Bloom is chance for the city’s green-fingered residents to work together and make a real difference to their own personal green spaces.
The secret rainbow garden.
“Last year, we had more than 150 applicants enter Hull in Bloom and it was wonderful to see the high-calibre of gardening skills that were on display.”
The applications for Hull in Bloom are now live. Residents can enter the competition here.
Categories include:
- Best contribution to wildlife
- Best display by a public house
- Best display by a commercial organisation
- Best garden
- Best planted container or hanging basket
- Best allotment garden
- Best display by a community group
- Best display by a school
It runs until Sunday 30 June, with judging beginning on Monday 8 July. The celebration event will be held in September.
National Gardening Week takes place from Monday 29 April to Sunday 5 May. It is the nation’s biggest celebration of gardening, raising awareness of the difference that gardens and gardening can make to people’s lives.
