THE sun shone down on some of the town's most colourful gardens when judges from the annual Malvern in Bloom residents' competition came calling.

The judging teams were delighted with the the efforts and artistry of the entrants and, although there was no formal theme this year, the judges were looking for creativity, use of space, visual impact and originality.

Cynthia Palmer, a member of the team, said: “The standard of the gardens we visit gets higher every year and it is very difficult to choose the winners.

"We are always thrilled to be able to see the gardening delights of Malvern residents that are, all too often, hidden from public view.”

The judges were also pleased to see environmentally-friendly gardening activities encouraging the proliferation of bees and butterflies, and the use of home composting.

The winners will be presented with their prizes at Malvern Town Council offices on Tuesday , August 19, and those who were highly commended will be sent a certificate. The competition was sponsored by Waitrose.

Results.

Best front garden. Winner: Brian Strain, Graham Road; highly commended: Christine Stubbs, Longridge Road.

Best rear garden. Winner: Ann and Mick Eaton, Madresfield Road; highly commended: Martin Lawrence, Poolbrook, and Martyn Dack, Geraldine Road.

Best edible garden. Winner: Penny Redman, St Andrew’s Road; highly commended: Gerda Trant, St Bernard Drive

Best limited space/courtyard. Winner: Daniel Bailey, Spring Gardens; highly commended: Betty Mills, Worcester Road, and Sue Wright, Frederick Road.

Best containers/hanging baskets. Winner - Pamela Cubberley, Watkins Way; highly commended – Ann and Mick Eaton, Madresfield Road.

Residents who garden with assistance. Winner: Anna Silver, Moorlands Road.