Do you have a garden or allotment that you are proud of? We would love for you to enter it into our competition!
This competition is open to all residents, businesses and schools in the Ripley Township including Ambergate, Bullbridge, Hammersmith, Heage, Lower Hartshay, Upper Hartshay, Marehay, Nether Heage, Ridgeway, Sawmills, Street Lane, Upper Hartshay and Waingroves. The gardens or allotments to be judged must be in the Ripley Township.
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New for 2026!
To give more residents the chance to shine, there are a couple of positive changes this year. First place winners from last year’s competition will not be eligible to enter in 2026, but they will be warmly welcomed back to take part again in 2027. This one-year pause is designed to give others the opportunity to step into the spotlight and enjoy the thrill of winning.
In addition, judging dates are being brought forward to June. This change will ensure that gardens and allotments are assessed when they are at their very best, showcasing spring and early summer planting, fresh growth and vibrant displays. Full details on categories, judging dates and how to enter will be announced closer to the launch.
So, as the days get longer and gardens begin to wake up, now is the perfect time to start planning. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or thinking of entering for the first time, 2026 could be your year to grow, glow and win.
Keep an eye out this spring for entry forms and further information – and let the gardening begin!
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The competition is supported by Central Cooperative Membership.
Categories:
Best Business Floral Display
Best School Outside area created by the pupils
Best Small Garden
Best Large Garden
Best Community Project
Best Allotment
Closing date for all entries is Sunday 24th May 2026 at 5pm.
Judging for Best School Outside area will take place on a date to be confirmed.
Judging for all other categories will take place on Saturday 6th June 2026.
FIRST PRIZE IN EACH CATEGORY - £50.00 Co-op Voucher
SECOND PRIZE IN EACH CATEGORY - £25.00 Co-op Voucher
If you require a paper copy of the entry form, please download it below, or request one from us on 01773 513456 or email deputyclerk@ripleytowncouncil.gov.uk
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Terms and Conditions
First place winners of the 2025 competition are not permitted to enter in 2026. You may enter again in 2027.
This competition is open to residents in the Ripley Township including Ambergate, Bullbridge, Hammersmith, Heage, Lower Hartshay, Upper Hartshay, Marehay, Nether Heage, Ridgeway, Sawmills, Street Lane, Upper Hartshay and Waingroves.
The gardens or allotments to be judged must be in the Ripley Township.
Ripley Town Council has the right to withdraw categories depending on the number of entrants received.
Entry is free of charge.
Entries must be submitted by the stated closing date - Saturday 24th May 2026.
Entrants agree to allow judges access to their garden or allotment for the purpose of the judging.
Ripley Town Council may take photographs of entries for judging and promotional purposes. By entering the competition, entrants consent to the use of photographs in council publications, social media and on the Ripley Town Council website.
Personal data will be processed in accordance with the council’s privacy policy.
Prizes are non-transferable and no cash alternative will be offered.
Entrants are responsible for ensuring their garden or allotment is safe for judges to access.
Ripley Town Council accepts no liability for accidents, injuries, or damage occurring during judging.
Ripley Town Council reserves the right to disqualify any entry that does not comply with these terms and conditions or is deemed inappropriate.
Ripley Town Council reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions or cancel the competition if circumstances require.
Participation in the competition constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.