MALMESBURY'S floral displays have won a silver gilt award in the South West In Bloom contest organised by the Royal Horticultural Society.

In this year's battle for the South West Travel Association Cup for towns with a population between 4,500 and 5,999, the town achieved its highest ever position.

Judge Martin Ford, a professional gardener from Bristol, was given a tour of Malmesbury by town councillor Catherine Doody, who said: "It is great for Malmesbury. I am very pleased for all the traders and residents who put on an excellent show."

The town's colourful array of flowers were just pipped to the winning spot by Dartmouth. Budleigh Salterton in east Devon and South Molton in north Devon also received silver gilt awards.

Towns are given credit for the quality of floral displays, permanent landscaping, sustainable development and local environment. Also taken into consideration are community involvement and the contribution from businesses and voluntary groups.

Coun Doody said: "I would like to thank all who helped in our success, in particular, the town and district council and the Rotary club."