VIillagers at Stert celebrated receiving first place in the Best Kept Village competition on Sunday.

The hamlet, which enjoys stunning views over Stert Valley, took first place in the small village category in the Kennet district round and second place in the county round.

The district round was judged by Richard Aylen and Jan Boyd. Mr Aylen wrote: “We chose Stert for first place because, despite lacking any pub, shop, village hall or public open space, there is clearly a great sense of community and a pride in the appearance of the whole village.”

Clive Boyes, chairman of Stert Parish Council, received the award from Alan Cannon of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE).

Mr Boyes said: “Everyone in the village is delighted by our success and the comments about community spirit are particularly pleasing.”