Sue’s horticultural training began at Writtle Agricultural College in Chelmsford with a further stint at Thomas Danby College in Leeds. 

Since 1988, Sue has been with Harrogate Borough Council – initially as the Parks Technical Officer for 12 years where her responsibilities included designing and preparing bedding schedules for the whole District.  Her current role involves liaising with eight local “in Bloom” groups across Harrogate District many of which she has supported and mentored in both the Britain in Bloom and Entente Florale campaigns helping them achieve extremely high standards.  Sue has been a judge for Yorkshire in Bloom since 2001 and on the Yorkshire in Bloom Executive committee since 2003.

David started his working life in 1970 as an apprentice gardener with Huddersfield Parks Department.  Whilst there, he was seconded for training at Askham Bryan College York 1972-4 and the Institute of Parks and Recreation Administration (The Grotto) in Reading in 1975.

Prior to taking early retirement in September 2005 David was Operations Manager for Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Leisure & Amenity services managing Parks, Refuse Collection, Recycling centres & Street cleansing operations. 

David has been on the South West Britain in Bloom judging panel since 1995 and also judges the Green Flag Awards.

Finalists Manual distributed

Finalists' questionnaires due back to RHS

Finalists Seminar in Sheffield (venue TBC)

Deadline for Finalists' portfolios

BIB judging fortnight

Deadline for Finalists' images

RHS Britain in Bloom Awards in Torbay

Judges Surgeries (Torbay)