BEAUTIFUL blooms and dazzling displays have captured a silver medal for Worcester in this year's Heart of England in Bloom competition.

The city was joined by Evesham, Droitwich, Hereford and Bromyard, which also clinched silver medals.

"I think that for Worcester to get an award is very satisfactory," said Derek Prodger, city councillor and portfolio holder for community services.

"Someone has looked at the city and said it's a very attractive city.

"Don't forget that there's only one higher accolade, and that's gold."

Coun Prodger commended Ian Yates, the council's parks and cemeteries manager, for his dedication, saying he was the driving force behind the city's success.

"He deserves a special thanks," said Coun Prodger, after hearing the results announced today at Hereford's Courtyard Arts Centre.

Ledbury scooped a gold medal and was crowned overall winner of the 46 towns, villages and cities that entered.

It will now represent the region at the 2003 National Britain in Bloom competition.

"I would like to congratulate all those who made this year's Heart of England in Bloom a very memorable one," said Sir William Lawrence, chairman of the Heart of England Tourist Board.

"Although there can be only a few winners, the effort and commitment of all the entrants is recognised and greatly appreciated.

"It's such an important part of the tourism calendar and creates real pride among communities.

The competition, which was started in the 1960s, is staged every year and makes up the regional element of the national Britain in Bloom competition.

It aims to encourage communities throughout the West Midlands to work together and create vibrant places in which to live and work and to visit.

Worcester first entered in 2000, winning a bronze medal, a success repeated last year when the city was also awarded the Les Topham trophy for its riverside and floral displays.