At the 2018 Islington in Bloom Awards ceremony at the Town Hall, Penn Road Gardens won GOLD in the Community Parks’ section. 

   Described as one of the most beautiful and interesting sights in the borough, there was praise for the wild garden, bug hotels, chess table, topiary, compost accelerators and play space. 

Penn Roader Judy Garvey who so sadly died of cancer last June, was lauded not only for her years of hard work in the Gardens, but also as the initial inspiration behind its ongoing success.

   It was Judy who put on her boots and took up her fork and spade ten years ago. It was Judy who enthused others to join her. It was Judy who worked closely over the years with Community Landscape Officer Colette Blanchard.

   To collect the award, six Penn Road residents and gardeners attended and were congratulated by the Mayor, Councillor Dave Poyser, resplendent in full mayoral robes and chain of office. 

In announcing this achievement, Bob Gilbert, Director of Environment and Regeneration at Islington Council (retired) paid tribute to the inspirational Judy – who he described as leaving an amazing legacy - and to the Penn Road Residents’ Association. 

   It was, he said, the first time such a group had taken joint responsibility with the council for the maintenance of a public green space. Paul Garvey, the current PRRA chair and Judy’s husband, can be credited with helping to set this up. He says he’s delighted that the council is now extending this joint venture across the borough.

   Volunteers from Penn Road and the local area meet in the Gardens on the last Sunday of every month. From 10.00 to midday, experts and novices muck in and do what they can. Then it’s time for tea, coffee and biscuits. 

   Consider yourself invited.