24 September 2008

Digging in for a cleaner, greener Coventry

Pupils from 12 primary schools across Coventry came together today to celebrate their green-fingered achievements.

As part of Whitefriars Housing Group’s annual gardening competition, schools in the city were invited to take part in a national-curriculum linked scheme to grow their own flowers and plants. Over 500 pupils were eventually involved.

Each school was given a free gardening kit, containing seeds, tools and fact packs and set the challenge to produce their own greenery. All those who completed the project were invited to a special ceremony at the Britannia Hotel today to recognise their eco-achievements. Each school was presented with a certificate, trophy and a hanging bird table for their class outdoor area.

A special achievement award was also given to Alderman’s Green Community Primary, for this year’s most outstanding effort, as judged by members of Whitefriars’ Better Estates Group, a service improvement panel made up from Whitefriars residents.

The event follows the success in the Britain in Bloom competition of the joint entry between CV One, Coventry City Council, English Landscapes and Whitefriars. As part of the work which secured the Gold standard, Whitefriars undertook extensive work in areas it jointly-owns with the council and gave its sheltered schemes a boost with stunning floral displays. The eco-schools project received a special mention by the judges.

Whitefriars, which manages 18,000 homes across the city, launched the school programme as part of its ongoing commitment to improving the appearance of its estates and also its work in schools with local children to foster respect.

Richard Osborne, assistant director - property and strategy, said: "This gardening competition and work with schools is just one way we are meeting our commitment to improving the lives of residents in Coventry and fostering community spirit. Our intention is to make our estates cleaner, safer and greener, and encouraging the next generation to take pride in their environment is a key part of that.

“Through this project, and the respect scheme with secondary schools, we are playing a key role in helping to educate pupils of their responsibilities and prepare them for their future housing choices.

“Congratulations also to all the winners and shortlisted gardeners in the adult gardening competition. After the joint-partnership which saw us win the Gold standard in the Britain in Bloom competition, it is fantastic that this good work continues.”

After the children’s event, it was the turn of older gardeners to shine, with former builder Roy Pargetter claiming the top spot in the gardening competition for the second year running. Many other keen gardeners also scooped prizes for their hard work.

The school garden scheme was sponsored by Glendale, Whitefriars’ landscaping contractor.

For further information please contact Michelle Hallmark at The Bridge Group on 024 7656 0448 or m.hallmark@bridge-group.co.uk