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| A message from our President Greetings to all environmentalists Over the past five decades the SuperValu Best Kept Awards have become well known as an innovative and highly respected scheme to acknowledge the commitment of communities towards the improvement and preservation of the natural and built environment. The number of entries we receive each year from towns, villages, housing areas, healthcare facilities is testament to the enthusiasm of the entrants and to how important the Awards have become as a source of encouragement for local environment endeavours. Last year we reached the 13,000 milestone of entries which is no mean feat, with the Healthcare category only established in 1995 and the schools in 1991. At NIAC we do not rest on our laurels and every year we look for new ways and opportunities to recognise green community projects. With this in mind we are delighted to launch a new award for 2012 which will acknowledge local Councils that encourage communities to grow their own produce by providing top class allotment facilities, as well as the tenants who showcase the best plot. The Best Kept Allotment Award reflects the increasing interest in growing our own fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers. The Best Kept Allotment will this year receive the President's Trophy and entries are invited from Allotments owned by NIAC affiliated Councils. We look forward to another busy environmental year and would encourage all to accept the challenge by completing the relevant entry form which can be downloaded from the website. We wish success to all participants and leave you with this thought "When the Plot thickens, start weeding" Doreen E A Muskett - President |