Blooming beautiful at Yvonne Robertson House

Blossoms bursting out of baskets, pots and beds created vibrant contrast thanks to a stunning mix of petunias, begonias, laurentian blues, geraniums, dahlias and bizzy lizzies.

The residents of Yvonne Robertson House all contribute in some way to the fantastic effect, whether by growing plants themselves or by helping to buy new ones, but the major work is from John Crofts who has lived there for six years. He patiently tends to the hundreds of plants lining the walls, arranged outside doors, and hanging over the walkway between buildings.

The display impressed judges with its riot of hot and cool pinks, red, coral and purple, but John himself remained modest.

"Gardeners are never satisfied," he commented as he continued to fill the many plastic bottles he uses to water the plants at their roots - preferring not to use a hose for fear of damaging the flowers.

He also works on the vegetable allotment with Stella Pettitt which was created three years ago on wasteland at the back of the premises.

Judges Geoff Yates and Robin Potter were pleased to be told by scheme manager Marjorie Doherty that all residents take pride in the plants outside their homes and many work themselves to keep their plants in perfect condition.

"What everybody does is shared by everybody," said Robin who also appreciated the different styles of display in the adjoining walkway.

He said: "Both courtyard gardens are exceptionally high standard and they are well kept. It is interesting to see the contrast between the colour and the green sectors...one thrills you with colour and the other calms you down with its green-ness. I like that, it is a good theme."

Having walked around the entire garden including the allotment, Geoff commented: "I am more than impressed. It is not only beautiful but it is very productive."