BEAUTIFUL blooms and fragrant smells were not the only weapon used to impress the judges who came to run the rule over the town’s attempt to gain another gold from the Heart of England in Bloom competition.

At the end of their tour of the town the judges had lunch at Whitefriars and the menu was made up of food and drink from the Ludlow area.

It was prepared and by Tish Dockerty, manager of the Ludlow Local Produce Market and Secretary of the Ludlow Chamber of Commerce. She was helped by her daughter Alice who is home from University.

To help keep cool the judges and guests were served home made elderflower cordial.

Many different local producers and traders contributed to the moan course of cooked ham from Andrew Francis Butchers, a seasonal vegetarian tart that was the work of Local to Ludlow.

The potatoes and coleslaw came from Roots Farm and then there was a mixed salad from Incredible Edible of Ludlow.

Guests were served apple juice made by Appleteme.

Then there was a desert of strawberries from Bowden Farm and Cream from Mawley Milk and well as cake.

The lunch was put together by Local to Ludlow.

Tish Dockerty said that it was a good opportunity to show off the some of the excellent food and drink that comes from the local area.

The Ludlow Local Produce Market that provides the opportunity to showcase and sell food and drink as well as other items from the area has celebrated its 18th anniversary.

It operates in the town every alternative Thursday and attracts many visitors.