Washington Village in Bloom was formed in 2002 and has since been influential in transforming the appearance of the Village of Washington. Close links with local schools and, in particular, with the Old Hall, a National Trust property have been formed and this close collaboration has been instrumental in driving forward many initiatives.

Our current membership is approximately fifteen people of which a dozen or so regularly attend meetings and up to ten are able to participate in village gardening sessions.

Our thanks are also given to the Staff of Sunderland City Council who continue to give us great support. Washington Village is included in the councils planting plan though the group have taken on tasks previously undertaken by the council due to cutbacks in funding and staffing levels.

We maintain strong links with local schools, who take part in activities - in the past the pupils have planted nasturtiums in the flower beds on the village green and sunflowers in the ribbon bed. Local residents and businesses who are kept informed of our activities and key events, and everyone works to ensure the Village looks especially inviting for judging day.

We occasionally hold fund raising events and receive donations and apply for community funding which we use to buy plants, planters etc. The two signs on The Avenue and Abbey Road which "Welcome you to Washington Village" were erected by the group after fundraising and being awarded a grant.

In 2014 with donations and funding we replaced the wire mesh cages which surrounded the Carter and Callaghan trees on the Green with new decorative designs which reflect our USA links and our local mining heritage. The Initial designs were sought from Art Remix based at the Art Centre in Washington, and they were manufactured by MSTC Metals. We hope what we do as a group is seen to benefit of our community, if anyone wishes to lend a hand please do.

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