Poole BID in Bloom is a new competition that, it is hoped, will make the town greener, more connected and a more vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

Businesses have been encouraged to take part, creating a sense of pride and shared responsibility for the town’s future.

Poole BID lead, Jacqui Rock, said: “We have been working hard over the past couple of years to ensure that our street dressing initiatives are impactful. Our hanging baskets and pedestals, along with some recently installed olive trees, have helped the town blossom, however, we believe that further embellishments are key to enhance this further. What better way to achieve this by encouraging our businesses to get involved? The transformation has not only benefitted the town’s aesthetic appeal but also plays a vital role in promoting sustainability, biodiversity, and a stronger sense of community cohesion.”

This year, there were four category winners and an overall winner, each of which has received a certificate and plaque for their endeavours.

The winners are: Thai Pantry (Best Restaurant and Overall Winner); Morebus (Best Community Space) and The Blue Boar (Best Pub).

Thai Pantry owner, Stephen Pritchard, said: “This year we decided to tidy up the area in front of our restaurant. We cleared the weeds and planted a selection of perennial and annual plants. We have turned the small area into an oasis of colour and fragrance. People are attracted to the flowers and comment on how lovely it looks and how much it has enhanced the area. Whilst admiring the flowers people smell the exotic aromas emanating from within the restaurant and either come in for a meal or book a table for later. The garden has been money well spent as it has made us and many people happy and has boosted our sales at the same time.”

Jacqui said: “As the initiative gains momentum, it is hoped that more and more businesses will be inspired to embark on becoming involved year-on-year towards creating a more sustainable and beautiful town for all to enjoy, and I congratulate all our 2023 winners who displayed their creative flair for all to enjoy.”