I have been involved with Britain in Bloom since 2004 when I first participated in my Village’s entry into the competition. This first-hand experience at Regional, and three times at National level, has led to a good understanding of all elements with a particular interest in the community and heritage – both natural and historical. I was asked to become a Regional Judge in 2013 and have served in both this capacity and as an assessor with It’s Your Neighbourhood. I also work on the Management Committee as Treasurer and overseeing the Regional Awards.

My professional career was spent in education, finally becoming a Headteacher in Bracknell Forest for 15 years. With this background, I was asked to rewrite the criteria for the Regional School’s Award. This enabled the judges to become more aware of the stages of development within the different sections and to assist them in marking accordingly.

My horticultural experience comes from gardening and running an allotment with my husband plus a love for the natural environment. Living in a small village (Bray) meant I that I became involved in every aspect of Britain in Bloom whilst encouraging as many other people as possible to share in that interest. Other personal pursuits include travel and genealogy.