(ALLEY) WAY TO GO!

Residents' delight as they win ginnel comp

- MAISIE LAWTON

RESIDENTS who transformed an 'eyesore' alley into an award-winning area say they are 'excited and shocked' to have won the RHS and M.E.N. Ginnel Garden Competition 2023.

The ginnel Back Wolsey Street in Radcliffe was littered with broken bikes, toys, buckets, bin bags and various debris. But neighbours have since come together to clean up the disused alley and say with the support of winning the competition, they can create an area which is vibrant, colourful and safe for people to gather.

Shelley Hicks, 49, had never spoken to her neighbours in the 30 years her home backed onto the shared alley until she decided change in the area was needed.

After joining a litter-picking group, she formed friendships with residents and has since created a vision for her local community.

Now, after winning the contest, the group will get cash and expert advice on how to spruce up the ginnel even more.

The group have won £1,000 to help transform their ginnel into a vibrant space and were invited to the RHS Tatton Park Flower Show opening.