Stroud and Stonehouse have scooped top prizes in the RHS Britain in Bloom contest.

Teams from both towns were presented with gold awards at a ceremony in Burton upon Trent last week, having been eagerly waiting to hear what judges made of their gardening efforts from the past year.

“It is the culmination of several months hard work involving our band of hard working, willing volunteers” said Stroud in Bloom chair Doreen Frusher.

Judges had taken a tour of Stroud earlier this summer, visiting the Walled Garden at the Museum in the Park, taking a guide tour of Stratford Park, then heading to Rosary Primary School, Park Gardens in Slad Road and Bank Gardens before walking through the town.

The judges also called in at the allotments at the Leazes, the Independent Trust to see the work carried out there, and the patient’s garden in Stroud Hospital.

Not to be outdone, Stonehouse in Bloom received in a gold award

Chair of Stonehouse in Bloom Gary Powell said: “We are very proud to receive this award on behalf of the Stonehouse in Bloom team and the people of Stonehouse.

“Everyone has worked their socks off and the teamwork and community spirit has been inspirational.

“Well done everyone!”

Nailsworth in Bloom also saw success despite it being the town’s first year entering the contest, taking home a silver gilt.

The group is having a meeting this Wednesday to kick start their efforts for next year’s contest.