BIDFORD fire station has come up smelling of roses again after winning the retained station category of the Dennis Lawrence Garden Competition for the third year running.

The competition, named after a former personnel officer, was judged by fire chief Brian Hibbert, his wife Dilys and Anne Lawrence, and covers all 19 stations across the county.

Leading firefighter at Bidford, Brian Wilkes, has been appointed head gardener and is being assisted by the rest of the crew for weeding and watering.

He said: "The fire station garden is a credit to Bidford and is often commented on by villagers.

"It's good to know the efforts are appreciated."