THE South West in Bloom judges were shown around in style when they visited Marlborough to judge the town’s glorious floral efforts last week.

Marlborough in Bloom organised for a vintage Rolls Royce to take judges Jane Pagano and Kim Parish around the town to showcase the floral displays and have lunch at The Polly Tearooms.

Residents, businesses and the town council have spent months preparing and tidying the town so the citrus themed displays were shown in all their glory.

The two judges were greeted by the Mayor Margaret Rose and chair of Marlborough in Bloom Anne Crawley and were taken around the High Street, including The Merchant’s House garden and down The Parade to gardens taking part in the judging.

When they visited last Tuesday, they were also taken to Stonebridge Wild River Reserve, the Old Victorian Cemetery in Frees Avenue and the village of Manton, who entered the competition for the first time this year.

“It was a wonderful effort,” said Mrs Crawley. “The entire town pulled together to show Marlborough is a lovely place to live. Last year we got two cups and six certificates and we are hoping to beat that this year – we are going for gold.

“One of the judges turned to me on the steps of the town hall, because the church bells of St Mary’s church was ringing and the town crier was ringing his bell it was very noisy, and she said it was the best welcome she had seen.”

The Marlborough Town Council groundskeepers also helped create planters especially for the competition with the results being announced in September at an award ceremony in Dartmouth.

Marlborough Town Council clerk Shelley Parker added: “Our community really came together to make the day a memorable one. The judges were impressed and we were all delighted with the support from businesses, shops, schools and community groups.

“Lots of thanks to all those in and around the High Street who made such efforts to participate in the citrus theme – clearly evident right along the High Street with displays of zesty oranges and yellows everywhere.

“The floral displays outside our pubs were fantastic. Though support came from the Town Council and Wiltshire Council, the real difference was made by volunteers whose efforts were seen greening up and cleaning up all over the town.”