A LOT of our time at the paper is spent reporting our towns, or supporting appeals from communities to help with specific projects.

What is wonderful is when we see communities pulling together to make something happen, even though it might seem like an utterly unachievable request or goal.

Which is why the annual call for volunteers to help with Britain in Bloom is so rewarding.

For those of you that are unaware of the national competition which is run by the RHS, you’ll certainly have reaped the benefits in a town or village near you.

The nationwide gardening competition is a powerful tool for building communities and tackling local issues, and it also highlights the beauty of where we live.

After the calls for volunteers, we all all get to enjoy the colourful displays that they have created in the towns and cities around the Five Valleys.

Well done to all of you that came forward to offer your time.

And a big thank you from us all too.