Over six decades, millions of people have participated, enabling them to get to know their neighbours, make new friends and forge stronger community networks. Britain in Bloom inspires community groups in towns, cities and villages to make positive changes to their local environment through horticultural, environmental and community action.

The nationwide gardening competition is a powerful tool for building communities and tackling local issues together. Working as part of a larger team of like-minded individuals that share a common goal can lead to blossoming friendships, camaraderie and a stronger sense of belonging.

“The 60th anniversary is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate community gardening,” says Kay Clark, RHS Community Development Manager. “The theme for this milestone year is ‘friendship’. Gardening brings people together and enriches lives. Social connections are fundamental to good health and wellbeing, and for the Bloom 60th anniversary, we’ll be celebrating the friendships and social benefits forged through plants and gardening.”

To celebrate this special anniversary, the RHS are sharing inspiring stories of friendships that have blossomed across the UK because of community gardening projects such as; Britain in Bloom, It’s Your Neighbourhood or other community gardening projects. Britain in Bloom participants are encouraged to get in touch with the RHS, to share their unique stories about the friends made through gardening.