Gardens were blooming across south Liverpool this summer as tenants took part in our Big Garden Competition 2026.
There was an impressive range of gardens on display, from vibrant floral displays and creative use of space to wildlife-friendly environments that support nature and biodiversity. Every entry reflected the care, effort and pride customers take in their outdoor spaces.
We received 23 entries from homes across Speke, Garston and our two independent living schemes in Woolton. The standard of entries was incredibly high, making the judging process a difficult task.
Our judging panel was made up of Anna Bishop, SLH Chief Executive, Ian Jones, Grow Speke Development Manager, Colin Hughes, Project Officer and Beekeeper and Victoria Rodgers, Assistant Gardener at Speke Hall. The panel visited entries across our communities and were impressed by the creativity, care and dedication shown by all those who took part.
Entries were judged across three categories:
- Best Garden for Nature and Biodiversity
- Best Use of Space
- Most Colourful or Eye-Catching Garden
Congratulations to this year's winners!
Best garden for nature and biodiversity:
- Melissa MuGuire from Speke
- Lesley Cranfield from Speke
Most colourful or eye-catching garden:
- Billy Edwards from Garston
- Michael Potter from Garston
Best use of space:
- Paul McDonell from Speke
- Ms Young from Servite Court, Woolton
Special recognition goes to Christopher Lee from Garston.
Here are some of the judges' comments
Christopher Lee received special recognition for his innovative use of a shared communal space, transforming it with personal touches and fragrant lavender that left a lasting impression. Judges praised his passion for gardening and commitment to growing produce not only for himself but to share with others.
Billy Edwards was named winner of the Most Colourful and Eye-Catching Garden category, with judges highlighting his immaculate pruning, crisp edging, vibrant planting schemes and impressive use of borders, especially during the challenging summer heat.
Paul Mcdonell won Best Use of Space for creating a beautiful and relaxing garden filled with colour, with judges particularly touched by the way he shares the space and his gardening knowledge with his grandson.
Melissa McGuire took home the award for Best Garden for Nature and Biodiversity, thanks to her thoughtfully designed and well-maintained garden featuring water features, bug houses, herbs, a fig tree, sunflowers, bee stations and seating, creating a happy, welcoming space that judges described as a pleasure to visit.
Congratulations to all our winners and thank you again to everyone who entered and helped make this year's competition such a success.
Your hard work continues to make our neighbourhoods brighter, greener, and more welcoming places to live!