Randalstown Gardens Take Top Honours!

Double Congratulations for Randalstown Gardens!

It was a week of celebrations in Randalstown as Neillsbrook Fold and Maine Fold were recognised at the Antrim and Newtownabbey Best Kept Garden competition.

Neillsbrook Fold took First Place for Best Kept Commercial Premises, while Maine Fold received the Runner-Up award, highlighting the community’s dedication to beautiful, sustainable, and wildlife-friendly gardens.

The awards ceremony was hosted by David Maxwell, presenter of BBC Gardeners’ Corner on BBC Radio Ulster and Editor of The Irish Garden magazine. The event celebrated the Borough’s leading examples of gardens that support biodiversity and showcase innovative, environmentally conscious design.

Judges praised the exceptional standard of entries, commending the gardeners’ dedication to sustainability and their contribution to enhancing the local environment. This year, particular emphasis was placed on gardens that support biodiversity through wildlife-friendly planting and creative landscaping.

Speaking at the event, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick said,

“It’s fantastic to see so many wonderful gardens created by our residents. For many, gardening is more than a hobby, it’s a lifestyle that brings happiness, wellbeing, and a deeper connection with nature.

“Whether it’s tending to plants on a windowsill or cultivating a large allotment, it’s inspiring to see such creativity and passion across our Borough. The Best Kept Garden Awards are a brilliant opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of those who make Antrim and Newtownabbey greener, more vibrant, and more welcoming. Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists.” 

Winners and runners-up were announced by Mr Maxwell and presented with certificates and gift vouchers by the Mayor, marking a proud moment for Randalstown’s thriving gardening community.

Congratulations to Neillsbrook Fold and Maine Fold for their outstanding achievements! Your dedication to beautiful, sustainable, and wildlife-friendly gardens is an inspiration to the whole community.

Quote reference: https://antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/news