A little touch of Spain comes to Alnwick as West Acre House wins inaugural courtyard festival

The event was intended to replicate the southern Spanish city of Cordoba’s famous event where people decorate their outdoor areas with real flowers that can be supported by architectural props and water features.

A town trail with participants opening their courtyards and patios to the public and raising funds for local charities had been envisaged originally.

Instead, a virtual event was held where entrants submitted a short video clip and a still photograph.

It attracted nine entrants with a variety of courtyards and patios. The entries were judged by Eileen Blakey and Kathleen Bradford of Alnwick in Bloom

The winner was Jeanette Hewison of West Acre House. The judges commented that the patio was structured perfectly with plants melding together and structural plants throughout with a sympathetic colour scheme and muted ornamentation.

Another entry worthy of mention and showing the range of possibilities was The Potager at Dukes which the judges commented was tiny but packed with charm.

The use of space along with everyday ornamentation, such as a bicycle on a wall, child’s high chair, was charming. It used every inch of available space to create an elegant colour filled courtyard.

The judges thought all the entrants did very well and they enjoyed viewing them.

David Taylor, who organised the event on behalf of Alnwick Garden Town Trust, said: “I hope it will become a regular event that will eventually be enjoyed by the public and help us raise money for local charities.

"We have not reached the heights of the event in Cordoba , Spain, but who knows what the future holds?”

David, who hopes Alnwick will become a garden town of excellence, thanked Investing in Alnwick, Loving Alnwick Alnwick in Bloom, Alnwick Gardens, Alnwick Tourism Association, Alnwick Music Festival, Alnwick Town Council and all the individuals including the entrants who helped.

A video of this year’s event can be viewed at http://tiny.cc/wp6ksz

Anyone interested in taking part next year or wishing to help can contact David at [email protected].

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