Bolton Fiori Fiorista

Queen’s Park in Bolton has one of the oddest political traditions I think I have ever heard about. This 22 ha garden and leisure park is chock full of flowers and shrubs and trees, to delight everyone, no matter their political persuasion.
The formal core of the park is surrounded by an oval path that joins several smaller paths that weave throughout the lakes, grasslands and woodland areas. Circular garden beds on several levels make for a delightful walk amongst the flowers and trees, any time of year.
Every year though this park does something special. On the slope at the south end, set between the two sets of stairs, they plant a different pattern of plants each year.
Why are the flowers and bedding plants different every year?
They are different because there is a tradition in the park where they spell out the name of the current mayor of Bolton in plants. Interestingly, too, the Mayor only has a term of one year from May, so the bedding is replanted every spring. Traditions with gardens, and politics are longstanding. This is the first time I have ever heard of a tradition where the flowers and the mayor are together.
I think it is a joyous way to celebrate the new hope associated with both the leadership of the town, and the passing of the seasons into a new springtime.
Bolton rules!