The winners of this year's annual Community and Curo in Bloom Awards were announced on Saturday 16 September at Curo's resident event the BIG Get Together, which took place at The Hub, Mulberry Park, Bath.

Victor da Cunha, Curo's Chief Executive, said, "It was a privilege to present the 2023 awards, which put our residents and the communities we serve centre stage. Huge congratulations to our winners and thank you to everyone who entered."

Curo's Community Awards celebrate local neighbourhoods and recognise the fantastic work of residents.

Steve Hartley won this year's Community Hero Award. Neighbour Elizabeth Jackson was one of the people who nominated Steve. She said, "Since he moved into Tiledown Close, Bath, Steve has been busy helping people with their gardens, completing minor repairs and giving advice where he can. Everyone in our community has benefited from his help."

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Pictured: Steve Hartley, winner of this year's Community Hero of the Year Award (left), with Curo's Chief Executive Victor da Cunha

St Johns Close, Peasedown St John, won Community of the Year. "Residents have worked very hard since lockdown to revive the events and activities at the community room," said one of the nominations. "They hold monthly big breakfasts and anyone is invited. New residents are supported to find out about their neighbourhood and what's on offer."

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Pictured: Residents of St Johns Close with their award for Community of the Year

The Curo in Bloom Awards highlight the beautiful outdoor spaces and gardening talent of residents. Strong entries across the categories made picking 1st place prizes a tough task. The winners were:

• Balcony & baskets: Malgorzata Burzynska
• Small Garden: Viv Fear
• Large Garden: Debra Smith
• Community Garden: Phoenix House

Phoenix House won with a gorgeous memorial garden which resident Matthew Brimley created in memory of his late partner, Jen. It features a heart-shaped border and a vibrant mix of planting. "The garden is a peaceful place where we sit and remember Jen," said Matthew. "Children love it – we've transformed it from a neglected patch of grass into a lovely space for them to play."

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Pictured: Community Garden of the Year Award winner Matthew Brimley of Phoenix House is presented with his award by Victor da Cunha

All the 1st prize winners were presented with a trophy and £75 Love2shop voucher.

If you'd like to nominate someone for next year's Community Awards or enter the Curo in Bloom Awards, keep an eye on Curo's social media and website. Nominations and entries will open in June 2024.