VILLAGES across the county who have been getting green fingered as they compete in the Best Kept Village Competition have been awarded for their efforts.

The presentations for this year’s Campaign to Protect Rural England Wiltshire Best Kept Village Competition, sponsored by The Hills Group took place at he end of last month.

.As usual, in May and June villages were judged first within each of the four former districts of Wiltshire and in each of the three size categories. This year 39 villages entered, spread evenly across the county.

Hullavington was judged to be the Best Kept Large Village and was given an eight foot standard with mounted shield for a year, placed prominently in their village.

A spokesman from CPRE said: "The judges were very impressed by the lack of litter and colourful, neat gardens.

"The churchyard was well looked after, and the busy Primary School’s wildlife area and garden was commended.

"All in all, the village showed evidence of great community spirit, and putting a lot of effort into the Best Kept Village competition.

Biddestone was judged to be the Best Kept Medium Village, with the judges recognises how well the residents care for their surroundings.

With light rain falling, the presentation team were hosted in the White Horse Inn beside the village green, where coffee was served before plaques and certificates were presented.

Charlton was judged to be the Best Kept Small Village.

A spokesman from CPRE said: "Competition was fierce in this category, with Charlton winning by a narrow margin.

"Its neat hedges and verges epitomised the quiet pride of residents about their home.

"Public facilities, such as the Village Hall, Play Area, Cricket Pitch and Pavilion were deemed to be a credit to the village."

The winning six villages from the 2016 and 2017 Best Kept Village Competitions could not compete in this year's main competition but were encouraged to enter the Laurence Kitching Award, sponsored by Princeton Homes. This year All Cannings, Tollard Royal and Rushall all entered and were judged, and All Cannings were judged to be the winner of winners.