ON July 6, Leominster bloomed brightly in the sunshine and was looking truly spectacular as the Heart of England Judges were welcomed.

They were given a tour designed to showcase the many displays around the town.

The route took them past the Norfolk House poppy themed banner which had been made by the Norfolk House ladies group, through the hospital car park to see the garden cared for by Friends of the hospital and then onto Leominster Junior School.

Here they were greeted by the Gardening Club pupils and teachers and had the opportunity to be shown around the children's wonderful garden and allotments.

They returned to West Street where they viewed planters and shop window displays showing the "Adopt a Soldiers" certificates, before walking to the library where the local school children's wonderful art competition is on display until July 27.

The Buttercross filled with over 4,000 hand made poppies really impressed the judges and they enjoyed talking to some of the women responsible for the idea and some of the Bupa residents.

The Broad Street banners and new Bee Hive planters were admired before passing along Drapers Lane, where they had the opportunity to talk to more shop keepers.

The judges then went on into the bustling Corn Square. Here more of the splendid Remembrance banners are displayed above colourful hanging baskets and planters.

The Earl Mortimer Choir had assembled to sing for the judges before they returned to the Town Council rooms at No 11 behind the TIC for refreshments.

LIB volunteers and representatives from some of the many local groups who have been involved with the In Bloom projects gathered in the garden and waited to hear the judges comments.

The judges gave very positive feedback, they could see and feel the wonderful community spirit and response this year with the crafted poppies and banners as well as many other In Bloom projects that have taken place and have involved so many groups and individuals.

The judges were presented with two Verdun Oaks, saplings grown from Leominster's own Verdun Oak which is situated in The Grange. The saplings have now been presented to the Mayor of Tewksbury and to the Mayor of Ledbury.

Leominster in Bloom would like to extend their thanks to volunteers and dedicated sponsors. Without their support of cash, goods and services organisers would not be able to compete in this nationwide competition.

Julie Debbage and the Town Council have played a big part in cleaning up the town and keeping the displays watered, the excellent quality of the plants grown by Philpotts Nursery all count towards the goal of Gold again for Leominster.

Organisers wait in anticipation as the results are not known until September.