THE Usk in Bloom group has yet again won a Wales in Bloom award for its work in the local community.

Wales in Bloom is the regional element of the National Britain in Bloom competition, supported by the Royal Horticultural Society. Usk in Bloom won in the small rural town category.

Jim Goodwin, chairman of Wales in Bloom, said: “The award is based on three elements: horticulture, environment, and community. The floral displays were very good but their work in the community was also very good. They also have a good conservation policy and well-kept private gardens. And many of Usk’s pubs and shops also take part in the competition.”

The Wales in Bloom National Awards ceremony was held in Usk at the Glen Yr Afon Hotel yesterday.

The Britain in Bloom gala dinner will take place in Bristol on October 16.

Usk In Bloom chairman, Tony Kear, said volunteers had been working on displays for nine months before the judges visited in August.

In June, the town was visited by the Duchess of Cornwall in recognition of the town’s success in the Britain in Bloom competition, which dates back more than 30 years since the group was founded in 1981.

The duchess’ visit saw three children and frequent gardeners at Usk Primary School show her around their gardens which were given a gold commendation by the RHS last year.

For a full list of Gwent winners see tomorrow's Argus.