The annual Havering In Bloom competition brought with it more than 60 entries from gardening enthusiasts in the borough.
![Janet Doyle won best back garden]()
Janet Doyle won best back garden (Image: Janet Doyle) According to Havering Council, the quality of the entries put forward for 2024 "made judging each category even more difficult than in previous years".
The competition awarded six entrants in six categories ranging from best back garden to tallest sunflower.
![Ron Nicklin's hanging baskets won him the best hanging basket title]()
Ron Nicklin's hanging baskets won him the best hanging basket title (Image: Ron Nicklin) Finalists in the competition gathered for a ceremony at Havering Town Hall on September 19 where the winners of the categories were announced.
Eric Willson was named as winner of the tallest sunflower, with his impressive plant measuring 142.8 inches tall (11.9 foot).
![Paul Highman won the category for best front garden]()
Paul Highman won the category for best front garden (Image: Paul Highman) The average single-decker bus measures around 10ft in height.
The best back garden was won by Janet Doyle, with the award for the best front garden being given to Paul Highman.
![Engayne Primary School won the category for best school display]()
Engayne Primary School won the category for best school display (Image: Engayne Primary School) Evelyn Sharp House in Gidea Park won the category of best communal garden, with Ron Nicklin winning the best hanging basket category.
Engayne Primary School in Upminster took the accolade for best school display.
![Evelyn Sharp House won the best communal garden category]()
Evelyn Sharp House won the best communal garden category (Image: Evelyn Sharp House) All finalists and winners received certificates, as well as a gift voucher for B&Q, which were donated by K&T Heating, Mears, Equans and Marsh Services.
READ MORE: Masterplan for Romford's future approved
Cllr Gerry O'Sullivan, Mayor of Havering, said: "It has been another great year for entries to this brilliant competition, which continues to demonstrate the creativity of Havering residents.
![Eric Willson's sunflower won him the Tallest Sunflower category]()
Eric Willson's sunflower won him the tallest sunflower category (Image: Eric Willson) “I have loved seeing each of the entries and think it is wonderful to see so many locals who are willing to step up and do their bit to brighten up the borough, whatever the weather.
“Congratulations to all of our winners.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here