Guildford in Bloom are delighted to announce that their Crowdfunding Campaign with Spacehive has been a success and their target has been reached.
Guildford in Bloom have relied on their loyal and generous sponsors to contribute to the campaign; especially Chapters Financial Limited, Unigold 2000 Limited, Experience Guildford, Tunsgate Quarter, University of Surrey, Guildford Financial and Pubwatch.
With increased costs, and Guildford in Bloom’s new status as an Independent Association there was a shortfall in funding – meaning it would enter 2024 with uncertainty as to whether it could hold Blooming Picnic or the Competitions for residents and schools going forward.
Many generous donations were pledged from supporters and Guildford in Bloom wish to thank each and every one of them. However, with one month to go, and even with a contribution to the fund of £3000 from GBC, over £7000 was needed and the campaign looked set to fail. Until MP Angela Richardson donated and shared her support on X (Twitter). This was seen by St Edwards Homes, who recognising that the ethos of Guildford in Bloom matched their aims for their community funding, swept in and completed the balance of the campaign, meaning target was reached.
Chairman of Guildford in Bloom, Paul Spooner said: “This is an amazing result. A few weeks ago, our Committee were very disappointed with the match funding offered by Guildford BC to support our Crowdfunding. Today we are in as very different position, and we have achieved the funding necessary for our committee and team of supporters to continue to support the community”.
Jack Nicholson, Land and Development Director at St Edwards Homes Limited said: “St Edward are proud to be partnering with Guildford in Bloom. We always look to support local organisations and charities close to our developments and this fantastic organisation aligns closely with our own values.
At our proposed North Street development, as well as investing in much needed new homes, refurbishing the bus station and pedestrianising North Street, St Edward are creating 2.2 acres of new high quality public realm, planting 120 new trees, and delivering a 201% biodiversity net gain as part of our vision to ‘green up’ the town centre.”
The success of the crowd funding campaign will be celebrated at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre when this year’s entrants receive their certificates and awards at an event hosted by Joe Talbot of BBC Surrey. It will be an opportunity to raise a glass to all our loyal supporters.
More information on the work of Guildford in Bloom can be found at www.guildfordinbloom.com and on their social media channels.
