Winners of York Housing Association’s annual York In Bloom contest (From York Press)

Winners of York Housing Association’s annual York In Bloom contest

8:46am Friday 21st September 2012 in News

A TOP York gardener who suffers from severe arthritis has been named as one of the green-fingered winners of a city-wide competition.

The front garden of Rosemary Cobb’s home in Faber Street claimed the title of Best Large Garden in York Housing Association’s annual York In Bloom contest, a reward for her hours of daily and often painful “pottering”.

“It’s worth it - it takes my mind off things, keeps me busy and gives me a lot of pleasure when I stand back and look at it,” said Rosemary, who was joint winner with Barry Clements, a resident at the association’s supported living accommodation at The Village, in Haxby .

Barry, who is visually-impaired, produced a bumper crop of vegetables which his neighbours have enjoyed tucking into, and he plans to sell his produce next year to pay for more planting.

Chris Wheller and other residents in supported accommodation in St Mary’s were joint winners in the Best Edible Products category, with John Roberts claiming the Best Hanging Basket prize at his home in Lichfield Court and Peter Fryett, of Bretgate, winning Best Small Garden. All the victors received a trophy and a cash prize.