Volunteer support recognised nationally for historic gardens

A national awards scheme has recognised volunteer efforts to support an historic Rhyl site.

Rhyl South West Central Residents' Association’s (RSWCRS) work to support Rhyl Botanical Gardens was recently highlighted at the 2025 Wales in Bloom Awards.

The volunteer group works to support the continued flourishing and growth of the historic town site which is owned by Denbighshire County Council and supported by the Council’s Streetscene team.

Rhyl's Botanical Gardens took root in 1878 when the grounds were first sold, showcasing an area full of different tree and plant species alongside a lily pond. In 1928 the addition of new facilities such as the tennis courts were opened to the public.

Volunteers were recognised for their support to the gardens in 2008 when they received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2008 for their work in reinstating and managing the gardens.

In 2017 the Earl and Countess of Wessex also visited the Botanical Gardens to meet the people working to protect and grow the site and planted a Monkey Puzzle Tree in the grounds.

The Rhyl Botanical Gardens Volunteers were entered into the Royal Horticulture Society and Wales in Bloom It’s Your Neighbourhood awards 2025. This area of Wales in Bloom is a scheme for volunteer-led community gardening groups which are focused on cleaning up and greening up their local area.

Wales in Bloom judges awarded the team a Level 2 ‘Improving’ classification for 2025.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Denbighshire County Council’s lead member for environment and transport, said: “It’s fantastic to see these volunteers recognised by Wales in Bloom for the hard work they put into such an important site for Rhyl, year on year. Their commitment and dedication at the Botanical Gardens is keeping a vital piece of the town’s history flourishing into the future and they deserve this recognition for their efforts."