Ref.10503GARDENING enthusiasts adorned Chippenham with a spectacular array of flowers in this summer's Chippenham In Bloom competition.

Green-fingered residents amazed and delighted judges with their imaginative and carefully tended displays of plants and flowers in the annual competition, organised by Chippenham Town Council.

"It was very difficult to choose a winner," said the Mayor of Chippenham, Coun Desna Allen. "The entrants have got it off to a fine art. The quality was excellent."

She said the judging panel was looking for a good selection of plants and a considered layout with a good overall design.

The contest had six classes, as well as an overall winner.

This year Mary Lindsey at 35 Esmead won first prize in the front garden section, and David and Janet Peck, of 127 Queens Crescent, were awarded first place in the best container garden class.

Their lawn features a host of containers including dahlias and French marigolds.

The award for the best overall garden was made to Jacqueline and Allan Neale at the Oak Lodge Guest House in Bristol Road.

The couple took first prize in the Last Year's Winners section.

Ray Lane, head of service delivery at the town council, said many gardeners took great pride in enhancing their own and the town's environment through creating wonderful gardens and he hoped many would enter next year.