Oakham in Bloom have marked the retirement of Oakham in Bloom founder Joyce and her husband Bob Lucas.

Joyce Lucas (BEM) and her husband Bob Lucas were pleasantly surprised to receive a heartfelt thank you from members of Oakham in Bloom committee, Oakham Mayor, Sally-Anne Wadsworth, and councillors and friends.  

A garden gift and Certificate of Appreciation were given to thank Joyce, who was a founder of the 'in Bloom' group in 1997, and to thank Bob for his constant support over the years. 

Chair, Chris Cairns, told the group that Joyce has now decided to stand down from committee, where she was publicity officer, fund raiser and Vice Chair, amongst many other tasks, which helped the group to continued working on and improving Oakham Town.  

Mrs Cairns said: "She will certainly be missed for her commitment and encouragement. Very best wishes to them both for the future and sincere thanks from all."

The group are keen to welcome new members who wish to support the planting an maintenance of beds in and around Oakham: "We would love to welcome anyone who may wish to help with hands on gardening, or even administration roles, as we all know many hands make light work. It is a rewarding and happy volunteer group who need support to progress into new Season of Colour in Oakham."

Formed in August 1997, the Oakham in Bloom committee consists entirely of volunteers and works in partnership with Oakham Town Council, Rutland County Council, schools and youth groups, voluntary organisations, residents and businesses to enhance the local environment.​

W the support of Joyce, Oakham in Bloom were finalists in the 2005 Town category with Silver Gilt.

In 2007, they were winners of the the Champion Town award with Silver Gilt. Then, in 2009, they came 2nd in Champion Town with a Gold award.

First and foremost though, the committee and the gardening and fundraising volunteers strive to make Oakham beautiful and encourage the community to plant and care for flowers, trees and shrubs. They always aim to integrate biodiversity into their scheme by providing ready sources of flowers for pollinators, as well as using native plants.

The group are involved in many projects around the town all year round, from planting baskets, containers and beds to bigger challenges such as the bypass roundabouts.

Find out more about the local group and how to get involved on the Oakham in Bloom website.