Gardeners in Sunderland have been recognised for their efforts during lockdown after winning our annual gardening competition.
Susan Remmer collected the top prize in the tenant category for her dedication to transforming her garden into a safe haven through lockdowns, including creating a memorial bench for her father.
The tenant from Humbledon won £200 from competition sponsors Equans (formerly known as Engie Regeneration Ltd) after beating off all other submissions on her first time entering.
Speaking of winning her prize, Ms Remmer said: “Winning the competition has been brilliant and is something I’ll always remember as I get older.
“My garden has been brilliant for my mental health throughout the lockdown and myself and my daughter have enjoyed creating a colourful and relaxing place that we can enjoy all day.
Dedicated residents from our sheltered scheme Peacehaven Court secured first place in the community garden category.
The scheme’s garden in Washington has been transformed by the residents, with some taking a leading role in the gardening and others contributing by buying flowers, equipment, and refreshments.
Thanks to sponsorship from Tolent plc, the residents have won a £200 prize that they intend to spend on a ‘Freedom Day’ party in the coming weeks.
Resident Doreen Wilson said: “Everyone has worked together to create a garden that all of the residents can enjoy and we’re really proud to have been named winners in the category.
“It’s been difficult over the past year, but our garden gave us a space to safely meet up, spend time together and have fun. We’ll enjoy celebrating with our party in the next few weeks when we can get all of the residents back together again.”
Catherine Loftus, Head of Tenant Voice at Gentoo Group, said: “We’ve really enjoyed the competition this year and have been blown away by the commitment our tenants have shown to creating beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces.
“It’s always great to see tenants taking pride in their homes and I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to enter the competition this year.”
Alongside out competition sponsors Equans and Tolent plc we also recognised other residents and schools who entered the competition.
The annual competition launches in Spring each year and is announced via our social media channels.
