HEREFORD in Bloom’s annual best gardens competition attracted a record number of entries and gave the judges a tough task choosing the winners.

Rita Bishop, one of the judges, said all those inspecting were greatly impressed by the efforts made to enhance the positive impact well kept gardens have on the environment.

"It also plays a big part in how well Hereford and the local area does in the Britain in Bloom competition,” she added.

The gardens competition, with its three categories sponsored by Radway Bridge Garden Centre sees each winner receive a £100 Radway voucher, £50 voucher for the runners-up and £25 for third place.

Winners of the back garden class were Jim and Barbara Shutt from Cotts Farm in while Don and Jane Priestman, from Stretton Grandison, scooped the front garden prize.

Finally, the best business garden was awarded to Robert and Hilary Markland for their efforts in brightening up Aylestone Hill at Southbank House.