Congratulations to the people of Tadcaster, in particular Geoff Green, for their fantastic success in achieving first in the regional finals for Britain in Bloom.

Geoff has been the 'contractor' who has enabled Tadcaster to previously register two seconds and then the brilliant first achieved this year.

This will allow Tadcaster to enter the national finals in 2000 and then possibly into Europe?

To term Geoff a 'contractor' possibly implies only an interest in a financial gain.

However, Geoff undertakes Britain in Bloom as a hobby aside from his normal work for John Smith's breweries.

He and his family have worked tirelessly, involving many late nights and early mornings. Geoff's commitment is driven by an appreciation of all things green (forgive the pun) and the opportunity to achieve things for the town he lives and works in.

I believe it is now time for Tadcaster Town Council (or Selby Council) to capitalise on the commercial benefits that success in events such as Britain in Bloom can bring to a small town.

Our local neighbour Wetherby sets a fine example. Additionally, this is a great chance for the council to acknowledge the hard work and determination shown by one of its residents for the benefit of the community as a whole.

Mike Hardy,

Marlborough Drive,

Tadcaster.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.