Barnsley in Bloom 2026 poster competition winners announced

The winners of this year’s Barnsley in Bloom poster competition have been announced and celebrated at a special event attended by the Mayor of Barnsley. 

Poppy Hill, aged 11 from Wombwell Park Street Primary School, was named overall winner of more than 95 entries in this year’s competition.

Her winning design impressed judges with its creativity and imaginative take on the theme. The artwork features Winnie‑the‑Pooh and friends alongside books and flowers, celebrating both Pooh’s 100th anniversary and the National Year of Reading.

Two talented runners-ups were also recognised. Martha, aged 6, was awarded the infant runner-up prize, while Ava, aged 11, also from Wombwell Park Street Primary School, was named junior runner-up.

The winner and runners-up were selected by Barnsley Council’s Parks team, together with Phyllis, who has been involved in the competition since its very first year in 2004.

The winner and runners-up attended a ceremony at Barnsley Town Hall, where they received their certificates and a framed copy of their poster design, before enjoying a guided tour of the Mayor's Parlour.

Mayor of Barnsley, Cllr Liam Hardcastle, said: “It was a pleasure to meet the young artists behind the posters and hear how they brought their ideas to life, inspired by both the National Year of Reading and the centenary of Winnie‑the‑Pooh - a story that began in the pages of a book and continues to delight generations.”

Councillor David Goddard, Cabinet Support Member for Environment and Highways, added: “Our annual Barnsley in Bloom poster competition has attracted an exceptional number of high-quality entries this year, with schools from across the borough showcasing imaginative, creative and eye-catching designs.

“The judging panel had a very difficult task given the outstanding standard of entries, but they did an excellent job. Poppy’s design stood out for its attention to detail and creativity and was felt to go above and beyond the brief for this year’s competition.”

The Barnsley in Bloom posters will be on display at Barnsley indoor market from Monday 20 July, showcasing winning and commended designs throughout the summer holidays.