Congleton War Memorial Hospital has been awarded a national Bees’ Needs Champion Award by DEFRA, celebrating the latest green transformation led by renowned local community gardener Patti Pinto.
Patti, widely known across the area for her environmental work with Congleton in Bloom, Trees for Congleton, and for designing the hospital's existing Wellbeing Garden, worked alongside fellow gardener John Sherwood to plant the borders surrounding the new Community Diagnostic Centre.
The vibrant new green space has been generously funded by the William Dean Countryside and Educational Trust and brought to life with the support of dedicated local volunteer groups. The project includes:
- Over 80 species of bee-friendly plants, carefully chosen to offer colour and nectar across changing seasons.
- A mini orchard, native hedges, and a log pile habitat to support pollinators and local wildlife.
- Beautifully landscaped borders that offer a welcoming sanctuary for wildlife and a peaceful spot for patients, visitors, and colleagues.
Speaking about the achievement, Patti said: "It was an honour to travel to RHS Wisley to receive another Bees' Needs Champion Award on behalf of the hospital. My colleague and fellow gardener John Sherwood attended with me to receive the award from Mary Creagh MP, Minister for Nature, DEFRA.
"I believe that the flowers, which change with the season, bring joy to the patients and staff who walk by on their way to the hospital."
The DEFRA Bees’ Needs Champion Award is a UK national recognition given by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. It honours community groups, farms, schools, and local organizations for outstanding work protecting bees and other pollinators.
ENDS
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