11/09/2023 - Luton in Bloom: A Blossoming Celebration of Community

With finalists from four diverse competition categories eagerly awaiting the results, the event transformed into an exhilarating showcase of talent, creativity and heart-warming camaraderie between Luton’s diverse communities. The resounding applause and cheers echoed through the square as the winners were announced:

Ioana Frigura, earned the well-deserved title of Best Residential Front Display. Tahmina Ajmal, secured the title of Best Fruit and Vegetable Patch. The future horticulturists at Woodlands Secondary School claimed the honour of Best School Garden.

And finally the Lullington Neighbours cultivated a sense of community and won the hearts of the judges, earning them the prestigious Best Community Garden award.

Watch a short video about the Small Farmers Market event.

This extraordinary event was more than just a competition; it was a testament to the unity and resilience of Luton's people. Over a thousand attendees made it a true spectacle of community spirit. The Small Farmers Market showcased the incredible talents of local artisans, offering an array of homegrown produce and handcrafted products. Families flocked to the event to immerse themselves in a delightful kids' activity zone, freshly cooked food and interact with the friendly animals at the pop-up farm.

An attendee and father of three, said, “It is great to have so many activities for the children to do. It is so expensive to take your children to somewhere like the farm to see the animals- and here it’s free!”

Conversations flowed freely, ideas and cultures were shared and gardening tips exchanged, perfectly encapsulating the essence of Luton in Bloom. It was an enriching experience for everyone in attendance, fostering a sense of togetherness and the celebration of a flourishing community.

Sujel Miah, the visionary Founder of Luton in Bloom, expressed his elation, saying, "Luton in Bloom was about connection, friendship, and community, and we have certainly achieved that in a remarkably short span of time."

Luton in Bloom is more than just a competition; it's a celebration of the deep-rooted connections, creativity, and commitment that thrive in our community. 

“As we look forward to the next season of growth, we celebrate the winners and applaud all participants in the competition, workshops and Small Farmers Market for their outstanding contributions to making Luton bloom with beauty and community spirit,” added Shana Iqbal, Development Officer. 

Councillor Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of Luton Council, said: “It was an honour for me to attend such a wonderful and heart-warming event that brought our communities together for something so positive. Luton in Bloom is a fantastic initiative which has the potential to transform our town and our communities if enough people get behind it. It’s so much more than gardening, it’s been about connecting people with nature, addressing social isolation, improving physical and mental wellbeing, creating harmony, instilling civic pride and improving the look and feel of our town. I can’t wait to see where the team can take it from here.”

Mark Turner, Service Director for Luton Rising highlighted, “Luton in Bloom has been absolutely fabulous with so many inspiring stories. When you consider the team has only been working on this initiative for a few months, they've achieved a great deal and I’m sure there is much more to come.” 

A special thanks to Luton Rising, Community Interest Luton, Inspire FM, Luton Council of Faiths, Peace Garden Initiative and Luton Council for their unwavering support and making Luton in Bloom 2023 a success.