Residents and team members at Longfield Care Home in Maldon are celebrating after receiving three awards at this year's Maldon in Bloom Awards!

Maldon in Bloom is a much-loved annual community initiative that brings together schools, care homes, community groups and local residents to celebrate talented gardeners in the area.

Representing the home at Maldon Town Hall, Maurice who lives at Longfield, joined the Mayor for the annual awards ceremony, where Longfield was presented with a Gold Award in the Residential Home category, Silver in the Planter category and Bronze in the Hanging Basket category.

These achievements are the result of months of dedication from residents, team members and volunteers, who work together throughout the year to maintain the home's gardens and create colourful displays.

Lifestyle Coordinator, Karen, organised regular trips to local garden centres, including Perrywood and Claremont Nurseries, where residents enjoyed choosing plants and flowers for the home's hanging baskets, planters, courtyards and flower beds. The outings became a favourite activity, with residents also enjoying tea and cake during their visits.

Ruth, who lives at Longfield, even purchased plants herself, so everyone could share in the joy of her favourite flowers.

The home's success was also made possible thanks to the dedication of former team member and current volunteer Margaret, who leads many of the gardening projects and generously gives up every other evening to help water and care for their outdoor spaces. Maintenance Operative Barry, also played a key role by designing and building a heart-shaped wall planter which impressed the judges.

"Maldon in Bloom is something we all look forward to every year. It's a fantastic community event that brings everyone together, and we're incredibly proud to have received three awards. Seeing residents choose the plants, get involved with the gardening and taking such pride in their home makes all the hard work worthwhile. We're also incredibly grateful to our volunteers and team members whose dedication helps keep Longfield looking its very best,” said Lifestyle Coordinator, Karen.

The annual event continues to be a highlight in Longfield's calendar, bringing together residents, volunteers, team members and the wider community while celebrating the positive benefits of spending time outside.