Yeovil’s flower displays are among the best in the country – and that’s official.
The town scooped the prestigious Silver Gilt award in this year’s Britain in Bloom competition.
Eight neighbourhood awards were also awarded to the town, in recognition of the efforts of local residents in brightening up their communities.
Liz Pike, who helped to co-ordinate one of the neighbourhood displays in Kenmore Drive, said: “Around 50 houses and bungalows in our road took part with hanging baskets and flowerbeds. Everyone made such an effort and it looks fantastic, but it also has given us a real community feeling.”
Displays in the town’s public spaces were organised by Yeovil Town Council and South Somerset District Council.
Cllr Jo Roundell Greene, district council portfolio holder for environment, said: “We are immensely proud of the team for all they have achieved, in Yeovil and all the way across the district.
“We get letters and comments from visitors and local people who say that the displays make a huge difference to the way our district looks so they are well worth the effort. They attract people in and leave a great impression.”
Cllr David Recardo, chairman of the town council’s Yeovil in Bloom steering group, added: “Our horticulture teams have excelled yet again with some magnificent displays and I think they are really something for the town to be proud of.
“It’s not just about flowers though – it is about local people’s involvement, sustainability, getting the schools and businesses involved and so much more, and it is these aspects we would like to build on for next year.”