Town praised by judges for 'exemplary' blooms

Sandy Melvin, chair of Bexhill in Bloom, led a small group of dedicated growers to Priestfield Business Centre, Gillingham, on Friday for the South and South East In Bloom award ceremony.

And Bexhill picked up a healthy five awards, including a high silver for the town's annual In Bloom effort, and a silver gilt for Highwoods.

"I was extremely proud, and it makes us keen to go for golds next year," said Sandy.

As a town, Bexhill picked up points for cleanliness, the AdiZone in Egerton Park, and the recently refurbished museum.

Judges also mentioned the enthusiasm of King Offa School pupils and staff.

On behalf of the Little Common Business Association, of which he is chair, Dave Dixson collected a Level Four It's Your Neighbourhood Award - meaning the LCBA gardening effort ranked as "thriving", one below the highest.

Dave praised LCBA gardener Keith Walter for his efforts, and added: "We have always entered the local Bexhill in Bloom competition, but this year we were encouraged to try for the regional.

"We do this as part of the business association. We see it as a positive way to promote the village, and so will be back next year."

Keith put his success down to "hard work and plenty of water," though judges singled his efforts out as "exemplary," adding: "It is indeed a remarkable achievement to have such a high level of participation from commerce, mainly due to the endeavours of the local business community voluntary organisation.

"The overall effect is to create a most pleasing welcome at the gateway to the town."

Bexhill Neighbourhood Gardeners, lead by Alvin Culzac, also collected a Level Four Neighbourhood Award, and Old Town's Manor Gardens took away a silver.

Cllr Paul Lendon, who was among those at the ceremony, said: "I always feel proud to represent the town in any form but this is particularly a lovely event, because I cannot think of a better thing to represent our marvellous motto, sun and health."