Monmouthshire County Council is celebrating the remarkable achievements of local volunteers, schools, businesses and community groups who have once again been recognised at the 2026 RHS Wales in Bloom awards.

From vibrant floral displays to thriving community green spaces, dedicated people across the county have been recognised for the passion, care and countless hours they invest in making Monmouthshire’s towns and villages welcoming, attractive and environmentally rich places to live and visit.

Among the standout successes was Jim Quinn from Growing Space Mardy Park, who received one of just seven prestigious RHS Wales in Bloom Champion Certificates awarded across Wales. Growing Space Mardy Park also achieved an Outstanding Level 5 Award, recognising the exceptional work of volunteers who have transformed and maintained the site.

Abergavenny in Bloom continued its impressive record, achieving Gold and winning the Towns category for the third consecutive year. The town also celebrated individual success, with Thomas Nethercott from Our Lady and St Michael’s Primary School receiving the Jim Goodwin Young Person Award, becoming the first person from Abergavenny to receive the honour.

The school was also recognised in the RHS Schools Category, achieving Level Two, while The Angel Hotel secured a Gold Award in its category.

Meanwhile, Usk added another impressive chapter to its Wales in Bloom story, achieving Gold and winning the Large Village category. The award marks Usk’s 40th Wales in Bloom title, a remarkable milestone reflecting four decades of community pride and commitment.

This year’s achievements are particularly significant following a challenging growing season. Throughout a hot and dry summer, volunteers across Monmouthshire devoted countless hours to watering displays, tending flowerbeds and caring for valued green spaces, ensuring communities continued to bloom despite difficult conditions.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Leader, Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, said: “Behind every award lies a story of kindness, community spirit and people coming together to make a difference. These achievements belong to the volunteers, schoolchildren, businesses and community groups who care deeply about where they live.

“Their commitment not only makes our towns and villages more beautiful, it brings people together, creates friendships and strengthens community pride. My heartfelt congratulations and thanks go to everyone involved.”