COMMUNITIES across Worcestershire who have made the county a better place to live in have been rewarded for their projects.

Inkberrow Millennium Green Charitable Trust came top in the Community Pride prizegiving in the environment category.

Menithwood Millennium Green, near Tenbury Wells was second and West Malvern Parish Council came third for its development of a community woodland.

Prizes were also given for heritage. The top award went to St Michael's Village Hall in Tenbury Wells for the construction of a lychgate and planting of a commemorative tree.

Overbury Church Committee 2000, near Pershore, came second for the production of its Book of the Year 2000 and Earl's Croome Parish Map Group, near Upton-upon-Severn, was awarded third place for the creation of a parish map and supporting book.

Worcestershire County Council also awarded prizes for celebrating the county's character.

Wick Parish Council, near Pershore, won first prize for its millennium projects.

Second prize went to Hadley Millennium Project, near Droitwich, and third was picked up by Bishampton Parish Council, near Pershore.

The Countryside Agency and Environment Agency sponsored the competition.

Entries for next year's competition are being welcomed by the county council.

For more information call the Countryside Service Projects team on 01905 766493.