Alderney has been awarded Gold in the Coastal category at the 2026 Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom competition, while islander Jenny Richardson has been named a Community Champion in recognition of her contribution to the initiative.
Nominated by Floral Guernsey, Alderney competed against six other entrants in the Coastal category, receiving a Gold award for its performance. North Berwick was named the overall winner of the category.
Jenny was among just 12 Community Champions recognised across the competition for their individual contributions.
Having led Alderney’s participation in both Floral Guernsey and Britain in Bloom, Jenny attended the awards ceremony in Rochdale to receive her award, which recognised her dedication to horticulture and community involvement.
The awards followed a visit to Alderney in July by two RHS judges, who praised the island’s horticultural displays and the strength of its community participation.
According to Jenny, the judges were particularly impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of those involved with the Hut at Saye, the Railway Society, the Bird Observatory, the Alderney Wildlife Trust, the States Works Horticultural team and numerous individuals who contributed to the island’s floral displays.
The judges also highlighted Alderney’s perennial plantings, which had continued to thrive despite challenging drought conditions during the year.
The Gold award recognises the collective efforts of Alderney’s volunteers, community groups and horticultural team, while Jenny’s individual award acknowledges her contribution to bringing people together through horticulture and environmental improvement.
Donald Hughes, Chairman of the Alderney Horticultural Society, said: “This is a wonderful result for Alderney and a real reflection of what makes our Island so special. The Gold award recognises the quality of our horticultural displays, while Jenny’s Community Champion award recognises her personal dedication and the tremendous contribution she has made to Britain in Bloom in our community. We are incredibly proud of both achievements and grateful to everyone who has contributed.”
