A LONG and tense wait is in store for the members of Calne in Bloom following the judges visit to their South West in Bloom entry last week.

Wednesday saw judges Terry Porter and Lesley Jelleyman visit the town and receive an extensive tour.

The two judges began at the town hall before visiting Castlefields Park, the Skate Bowl, Recreation Ground, Bowls Club and Priestley School before returning to the town centre.

Stuart West, outdoor services and facilities manager at Calne Town Council, said: "I think it went superbly, there were no negative comments from the judges. All the way round it was positive and I think they were impressed with the level of community input we have had.

"They were very impressed with the watering system which draws water from the river and not from the mains, that's very environmentally friendly and sustainable."

Following the tour, the two judges visited 10 of the It's Your Neighbourhood entries, a scheme for volunteer-led community gardening projects which are focused on cleaning up and greening up their local area.

Calne is bidding to retain the gold award it earned for the first time last year.

Mr West added: "We wait now until September 24 I would like to retain a gold and improve on it.

"The town is looking superb we are getting lots of compliments with people coming into the information office and saying 'Isn't it beautiful?'."

"Hats off to all the ground staff, all the community groups and individuals who have helped its been one huge team effort."

Lyneham and Bradenstoke also had their judging day on Friday, which included a special buffet for committee and judges at St Michael's Church Hall.