TfL In Bloom contest brings colour to Tube stations

Stations and depots across the London transport network have been transformed with gardens as part of an annual Transport for London (TfL) contest.

The In Bloom competition, which started in 1910, sees TfL staff decorate stations and depots with flowers, fruits, vegetables and plants.

To celebrate TfL's silver jubilee, the new Best Theme award was introduced, won by Highbury & Islington station.

South Tottenham station won the top prize, the Best in Show award, as well as the Best Cultivated Garden.

South Tottenham's entry was described as "a riot of colour" by the judges, following up on its success in last year's competition.

Meanwhile, Highbury & Islington station paid tribute to TfL's 25th anniversary in its garden, working with local children to show elements of the network's history.

'Peaceful space'

There were 12 categories, with TfL receiving more than 50 entries.

Categories included the Environment award, won by Goodge Street station for its use of reusable materials, recycled planters and solar power.

Morden Underground station secured the Fruits and Vegetables award for its garden featuring exotic fruits such as pineapples.

Best Newcomer was awarded to Tower Millennium Pier, with judges remarking that their garden was in a windy, exposed location where you would not think a garden could thrive.

The Best Community Partnership award was shared by three entries, from Stratford Market depot, Hammersmith Grove service control centre, and Norwood Junction station.

The latter station was noted for reviving a garden that was previously dormant, and enlisting community support to transform it into a peaceful space for mental health.