Lucy Kilborn, Dornie Watts, Chris Philips and Tony Jeffs in Barnsbury Square

THE people behind the well-tended roses in Barnsbury Square Gardens have won awards for their work.

The volunteers – all nearby residents – are in a celebratory mood: they’ve recently been announced as the winners of the coveted Green Flag Community Award 2023-4 for their effortx in the square.

Lucy Kilborn, who has been part of the group for 14 years, said: “It’s just a great acknowledgement of what the volunteers do here.

“[it’s] a good representation of the community coming together and working in a green space.”

Every Saturday at 10am, a dozen volunteers of all ages meet at the square to help in whatever way they can: they tend to the flowers, look after the shrubbery, and maintain their communal hut.

“So, we have this wide range of age groups coming,” said Chris Philips.

“And it’s open to anyone of any capability of any skill level. No one needs to be a gardener to help. There’s always something to do around.”

Mr Philips joined the group during lockdown after becoming a regular visitor.

“I was spending quite a bit of time in here reading,” he said.

“And one day I saw Lucy by the shed, and I just thought I should give something back.”