IMMINGHAM has unveiled the grand centrepiece of its In Bloom campaign to reflect the town's heritage and should put it on track for another gold award.
The new rail bogey, complete with track and even a semaphore signal, has tubs of flowers and wild plants, grasses and blooms – authentic to those found in the countryside – now stands outside Immingham Civic Centre.
It has been in the pipeline since December 2012, but Immingham Town Council staff put the last floral touches on the display this week and it was officially unveiled yesterday as the centrepiece of the Immingham In Bloom entry.
The Mayor of Immingham, Councillor Brian Duke, said: "You always have to have something new to impress the judges and show that you are constantly improving things – and this is exactly that.
"As well as looking fantastic, it tells a story of the history of Immingham, which was built on the railway and the port."
The new landmark hasn't cost the taxpayer a penny – all the equipment was sponsored by companies with interests in the town.
The original idea in December was for a wooden planter in the shape of a train but it escalated and before long, ABP offered parts after a tour of the docks.
Then Tata Steel donated a wheel set and a bogey, National Rail threw in the semaphore signal and LJ Brumpton and Son offered a heavy vehicle to transport it all.
Mr Duke added: "Some people seem to think that Immingham In Bloom is a waste of money but it actually costs the individual very little because most flower beds are sponsored by donations from businesses and donors."
Immingham In Bloom chairman Stewart Swinburn said: "We had the idea of getting hold of a bit of track but once we got the bit between our teeth and saw what could be achieved, local companies exceeded all our expectations."
Immingham Town Council secretary Dave Clark said: "It's fantastic and cost us nothing.
"The companies have been amazing and supported the town as they always do."
Colin Clarke, ABP assistant operations manager, said: "We're always happy to help the town and when the council told us it was for Immingham In Bloom, there was no doubt about us getting involved. The Port of Immingham was born out of the Great Central Railway Company and today delivers more than a quarter of the UK's rail cargo, so this is a perfect way to acknowledge the importance of rail to the town and port.
"We had great fun sourcing the 30 foot of track, railway sleepers, chairs, clips, ballast and buffer stop, and it's great to see it all finally unveiled.
"We hope that the display will bring as much pleasure to the local community as being involved has brought to us."
Paul Cobb, Immingham bulk terminal plant engineer, said: "Immingham is where we bring in millions of tonnes of raw materials which are then transported by rail to our nearby steel plant.
"The town plays a vital part in our UK operations and we really value our relationship with the community so were delighted to help with this project.
