WHY BEST KEPT
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Welcome to the SuperValu Best Kept Awards 2010. Some have referred to this year as Twenty Ten and others Two Thousand and Ten. However, it is the beginning of a new decade and in this respect I must add that Best Kept is definitely not 'D E C A Y E D'.

The recent spell of hibernation gave me time to reflect over the past ten years and it is quite amazing what progress has been made. So much support from the Sponsors, Housing Executive, Education & Library Boars, Health & Social Services - all helping to create and increase the interest in the preservation, protection and improvement of our environment. Where the interest is really appreciated is from active resident and village committees and members of the local community who take particular care in encouraging everyone to look after their surroundings and give a good example by their enthusiastic approach.

Since the Millennium several new features have been introduced to Best Kept. In the Town & Village category 'Best of the Best' in 2000; the Most Improved Village and 'Best of the Best' school in 2001 and a similar title in the Healthcare section in 2004 - all very much sought after titles and well deserved. The Welcome Award has brought back some entries and encouraged newcomers since 2006. The Ellen McGowan Trophy was re-introduced in 2007 for the Best Kept Housing Executive entry and the President's Rosebowl was presented in 2007. Plenty to strive for but definitely not the real objective. Whilst an award or title is a bonus the best satisfaction is endeavouring through hard work to encourage all to keep our countryside clean and green.

For over 50 years the Best Kept exercise has helped to make the most of our outdoor spaces and to protect our diverse natural environment and make Northern Ireland an even better place to live, work and play.

This year we hope to have an even higher level of participation and to reach our target of over 13,000 entries since Best Kept Awards were introduced in 1957. With everyone's help, undoubtedly this will be achieved and I would recommend and encourage entries in the various categories.