JUDGING of the Marlborough in Bloom entry into the South West in Bloom took place last week during a day spent at exploring the heart of the town.

Marlborough has recently been upgraded into the champions of champions category, the highest for the South West in Bloom competition.

Jon Wheatley, Chairman of South West in Bloom and Denise James, the Secretary, were welcomed by both the mayor and volunteers who had spent the morning making last minute preparations for their arrival.

Chairperson for Marlborough in Bloom, Anne Crawley, said: “It was a really special day which went terribly well. There was a great presentation and it was a celebration of all those in Marlborough who love gardening. Everyone had a good time.

“We had a brilliant grand final in the morning with a lunch provided by Rick Stein.” Organisers and volunteers now have to wait until September to hear the results, which include judging of 14 It’s Your Neighbourhood entries. This year’s entry focussed on the range of conservation efforts taking place across the town as well as its resident's gardening skills. Places like the Old Victorian Cemetery’s restoration project were championed, as well as the Stonebridge Wild River Reserve which cover 15 acres of land for wildlife to flourish.

Mrs Crawley added: “It’s not just about plant pots and hanging flowers, it is about preserving our environment and making sure that the town looks its best.

“The mayor will be joining us for the results ceremony in Devon in September, it is a great festival celebrating the South West in Bloom festival.”

Town mayor, Mervyn Hall, who welcomed the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) judges to Marlborough on Thursday, 13th July said: “It’s no surprise that Jon was impressed by Stonebridge, it’s developing into a real asset for the town and has already won regional and national

awards.”