THE Chelsea Flower Show gave two west Wiltshire nurseries the chance to show off their skills and both came back with medals.

The Botanic Nursery, Atworth, dazzled the judges with a display of their national collection of foxgloves, coming away with a silver award.

Owner Terry Baker said: "We have done the show for 15 years. It is one of those shows where you find true gardeners taking part. They are always enthusiastic and interested in what you are growing."

The nursery specialises in plants not generally available in garden centres, allowing customers to see how rarer plants can be used in their own gardens.

Also gaining a medal, this time a silver gilt award, which ranks between silver and gold, was Westdale Nurseries of Bradford on Avon.

The family business was started by Charles Clarke 50 years ago and although Mr Clarke, now almost 90, still takes an active interest, the business is now run by his son, also named Charles, and wife Trisha.

The nursery is home to the country's biggest collection of bougainvilleas and it was these plants that Mr and Mrs Clarke showcased at Chelsea.

Mrs Clarke said: "I think the prestige of Chelsea makes it special. Everyone knows about it and it is nice to be there and a part of it all."