Paul Spooner began his ‘In Bloom’ journey with Ash in Bloom for Ash Parish Council, leading entries in South East in Bloom from 2011 to 2013. He joined Guildford in Bloom as a Borough Councillor in 2013 and has served as Chairman since 2014, inspired by Hon. Freeman Jennifer Powell. Paul values the community aspect of Guildford in Bloom, especially the enthusiasm of young participants in schools competition. He aims to enhance sustainability and climate change awareness in the competition, hoping that in 40 years, all community members will be involved.

Shirley West has been involved with Guildford in Bloom for about eight years, starting with her own garden and later supporting the through the Tea and Cake Café at the Picnic in the Castle Grounds as President of Castle Green Bowling Club. This year, she led the Schools Judging Team alongside Caroline Coleman. Shirley cherishes the connections made with the community and delights in interacting with children, especially during the Awards when she witnesses the joy of the winners. She eagerly anticipates Guildford in Bloom's growth in the coming years.

Diana joined the Guildford in Bloom Committee ten years ago when it faced financial challenges and needed better outreach. Volunteering to assist with and social media, she now manages GIB's social media and PR while supporting the sponsorship team Diana believes Guildford in Bloom fosters community involvement celebrates the area's beauty, sharing her journey of learning about gardening through advice. She finds joy in connecting with participants and appreciates support from local businesses.

Rosemary has lived in Guildford for 30 years and is an avid gardener. Her front garden, accessible via a path, encourages conversations about plants and more. After a long commute to Hammersmith, her garden provided relaxation, leading her to enter Guildford in Bloom eight years ago and join the committee later, where she now helps with sponsorship and judging various categories. She is inspired by the community's enthusiasm and the connections formed through gardening, which showcases the spirit of Guildford and its supportive sponsors.

John joined Guildford in Bloom to manage accounts and became Treasurer in 2023. Despite his limited gardening experience, he admires the team's horticultural knowledge and their commitment to community engagement. He believes the highlight of the year is rewarding participants in the annual competitions, celebrating efforts to enhance the Borough's greenery and wildlife. John aims to attract more local schools, groups, and businesses to join the competitions and collaborate with organizations sharing similar goals.

Ana is one of the newest members of the team, having first become involved with Guildford in Bloom four years ago when she entered her own container garden. Inspired by the incredible enthusiasm surrounding the project and its ability to bring together the residents of Guildford, she naturally took the next step and joined the team behind this remarkable initiative.

Ana says, “Guildford in Bloom celebrates gardening and protecting our wildlife. Being a part of it means boosting local biodiversity, nurturing a sense of community, and helping Guildford grow into a greener, more vibrant place to live. I love seeing the beautiful spaces people create and the pride they take in their flower displays. It's truly amazing to see how gardening unites people, and the positive effect sustainable planting has on the environment. 

If I had to choose one highlight, it would be the significant positive impact gardening has on mental health and wellbeing. It’s truly fulfilling to witness the joy gardening brings to both people and the community around them."

Ana hopes to see Guildford in Bloom continue to promote the importance of wildflower areas and pollinator-friendly planting, while expanding and encouraging even more schools, businesses and people of all ages to take part, making Guildford an even more welcoming place for everyone.