We are delighted to share the wonderful news that the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, has won Gold and 1st Place in the Best Blooming Business category at the Islington in Bloom Awards. In less than six months—and in the face of repeated summer heatwaves—the grounds at New River Head have undergone an extraordinary transformation. With more than 2,000 plants now in the ground, the historic industrial site has been turned into a vibrant, welcoming sanctuary for visitors and local residents alike.

Beyond offering an inviting outdoor environment, the garden has rapidly become a major haven for urban wildlife:
* Rich Bee Habitat: New River Head is now home to more than 20 species of bee—recording more bee activity than anywhere else in the local area for this time of year.
* Pollinators & Wildlife: The site frequently welcomes hummingbird hawk moths, butterflies, squirrels, and jays feeding on sunflower seeds.

We extend our warmest congratulations to the entire team at the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration on this well-deserved recognition, and we look forward to seeing these gardens flourish as a green haven for years to come.

You can read about our grant to Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration here