Entente Florale

 

After months of hard work and preparation, Sheffield was successful in securing Gold in Entente Florale in 2005.  The result was announced in a glittering 'Oscars style' ceremony which was held in Gyor, Hungary. 

 

The Entente Florale competition judges European cities and towns against strict criteria in relation to their floral displays, environmental management and care of parks and green spaces. The competition also takes into account initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, regeneration, education and training, and neighbourhood renewal.

 

In the Towns and Cities category, Sheffield beat off stiff competition from many of Europe's finest including Baden in Austria, Mako in Hungary, Le Plesis-Robinson in France and Potsdam in Germany. 

 

Sheffield also won the Special Award for the most meaningful contribution to the quality of life for disabled people in the city and it was awarded especially for the work of the Council's Crown Hill Green Fingers students, who are based at Norton Nurseries.

 

Sheffield isn't eligible to enter again because the Entente Florale is a 'lifetime' accolade, which the city keeps forever.  A plaque in the Winter Garden commemorates this outstanding achievement.