PEOPLE of all ages who dug deep to make Devizes look as good as it could were praised by the town's In Bloom organisers.

Gardeners, artists and photographers all received prizes at a gathering at the Town Hall presided over by Mayor Andy Geddes and chamber of commerce chairman Bob Gilmour.

They presented winners with cups and certificates in recognition of the work they do to keep the town blooming.

The Clean Up Devizes Squad known to all as CUDS, the Devizes Town Council parks and open spaces team and the In Bloom committee were also thanked for their hard work and support over the year.

Cllr Geddes said that he was delighted to be involved in the event and was particularly pleased to be able to recognise those unsung members of the community who work tirelessly over the year.

He also said how hard it had been to choose a winner of the school’s painting competition as all entries were were so high.

Schools eagerly awaited the outcome of the Blue Planet themed contest for sea creatures made out of plastic that were displayed on the roundabout near The Green.

Wansdyke School and Southbroom Infants were joint winners with Carers Nest Pre School in third.

In the painting competition Indie Kaye won the under six years category and Katie Hughes the 7-11 age class. The photographic competition 7–11 age class was won by Popaea Aldridge and the 12 to adult section was won by Barbara Flower.

In the gardening classes Jan Lawrence won the prize for the best back garden and was also joint winner of the best hanging basket, proved difficult to beat.

Mr and Mrs Bowes also took more than one top prize by winning the best front garden, best hanging basket and best single container awards.

The Sidmouth Club was judged the best in the club and society section while the Bell by the Green was the best pub frontage and The Dolphin had the best beer garden.

Elizabeth House was the best residential home and Estcourt Vets had the best business frontage.

Best bedding garden went to Mrs V Preece, best allotment to Mrs E Theobald and the Pride in Your Place award went to Business First while the best eatery display went to The Wharf tea rooms.