The green-fingered gardeners of Devizes are celebrating again this week after winning a gold award in the South West in Bloom competition for the fourth year running.

The months of hard work and the efforts of all involved in the competition will be recognised by the Mayor of Devizes, Sarah Bridewell, at a special celebration event due to be held at the town hall tonight.

Coun Bridewell, who is also a Friend of Hillworth Park, was thrilled that the park received a gold award for the second year running.

She said: “The team are already working on next year’s displays to ensure Hillworth Park holds onto its reputation as one of the best green areas in the country.”

Zena Robson, chairman of Devizes and Roundway in Bloom for the past three years, said: “I think it is brilliant that we have won for the fourth time in a row. It’s a testament to all those who have taken part which included a lot of community involvement.

"I think we have retained the gold as we always listen to the judges’ comments and make sure the next year is better than the last.”

Last Thursday Devizes in Bloom committee members received the gold award from BBC’s Big Allotment Challenge judge, Jim Buttress, at a presentation ceremony in Trowbridge.

Mr Buttress, Britain in Bloom head judge for the last 25 years, was delighted at the standard of floral displays, gardens and parks across Devizes.

All entries into the competition are awarded a gold, silver-gilt, silver, bronze or certificate of commendation based on marks accumulated during the judging.

Many community groups including Drew’s Pond Wood Project and Roundway Parish Allotments Group also received awards in the It’s Your Neighbourhood Award category, a part of the competition which supports community groups planting up their immediate local environment.