Awards galore for Cavan and Monaghan at Bloom

Bord Bia Bloom has got off to a great start for Cavan and Monaghan gardeners with gold, silver, bronze and highly commended accolades.

Knockbride's Barry Kavanagh achieved a gold medal and best in category for 'The Birdwatcher's Balcony Garden', while gold also went to Truagh man Declan McKenna for his creation; the 'Celebrity Dream Garden inspired by Brendan Courtney'.

Speaking to the Celt, Barry said it felt "fantastic" to win his fourth gold Bloom medal.

Meanwhile, 'The Minions and Monsters Garden' by Clontibret's Benny Magennis claimed bronze.

Among the Flowers Farmer's of Ireland growers was Julie Magee Karlshoj with her Tullyvin-grown flowers. The group's cutting garden was given a silver medal by the judges.

"We're delighted with it," Julie beamed.

'Community Tea' by the Cornafean GAA Health and Wellbeing group received a highly commended award.

"I couldn't be prouder of the club and the community and the effort that everybody has put in. It's just amazing, people have worked so hard," Therese Johnston shared.

Judging took place over the past two days and the awards were handed out this morning, to the delight of Cavan and Monaghan participants.

See next week's paper for more on this year's Bloom festival.