SUCCESS AT THE TFL IN BLOOM AWARDS

While we celebrate Overground in Bloom across our network each year, TfL run a wider In Bloom competition and, as ever, ARL was in attendance at this year’s awards ceremony, having been shortlisted in several categories.

“Last year, ARL won 4 of 12 categories and we were hoping to gain the same success,” said Henry Cawson, environment and energy manager. “So, on Thursday 22nd September, London Overground went to the new City Hall building in the Royal Docks to fight for the In Bloom awards.”

Like our own Overground in Bloom competition, In Bloom celebrates green-fingered TfL colleagues from across the city, who have turned the network into a haven for plants, trees and even fruit and vegetables. Award categories include best indoor garden, best fruit and vegetables, best hanging baskets and best window baskets.

“After a lovely evening, Brockley was nominated for one award and South Tottenham was nominated for two, including the coveted Denis Sanger Best in Show which only very few stations are shortlisted for – an amazing achievement in itself,” said Henry. “South Tottenham came away with the award for “Best Seasoned Garden” – a credit to Ray, Azaz, Chris and Althea who were there on the night, and their other community and staff volunteers.”

“South Tottenham’s great achievements can be summarised by two words: teamwork and commitment,” said Althea De Amicis, service delivery manager. “It is unbelievable how contagious the work atmosphere is when you are there. Everyone works so well together, like they are all synchronised to achieve one common goal: to make customers happy.”

“The dedication of the team and community to the garden has resulted in much more than just a beautiful spot. It is the result of what people can attain when they really stick together,” added Althea.

“The award is an appreciation of the hard work the team at South Tottenham have put in over the year,” said Ray McDonagh, station assistant. “The gardens are a means to join the community and the staff in a goal to have the station as a focal point for changing the perception of the area.”

“The award is of great value to us and, as a team, we are very happy the TfL judges admired our hard work and the effort we have put into the project,” said Azaz Khan, station assistant. "It has given us the opportunity to engage with the local community and build stronger relationships with them, so thanks to TfL and ARL for all the support.”

Congratulations to the South Tottenham and Brockley station teams!