MALVERN has again been crowned champions in a prestigious national campaign.

The town has been awarded gold status by the Heart of England in Bloom campaign for its gardens and displays.

This year's Bloom competition was done through portfolios of photos and descriptions of gardens and planting projects throughout the town, as well as contributions from community groups to the overall look of the town.

Judges said the town's portfolio was "A wonderful insight into the way the community, local groups and councils all join together to participate in this competition.

"It not only beautifies the town with its fabulous blooms, but incorporates sustainable methods, operations and planting so future generations can enjoy the area as well."

Malvern first entered the competition in 2006 and has been successful in each of its 14 entries since then.

Cllr Nick Houghton, mayor of Malvern said: “This is an excellent achievement for Malvern, thanks to the hard work of all those involved Malvern in Bloom really is a team effort and the floral displays within the town looked fantastic this summer."

In addition, Malvern charity ARCOS has been recognised in the competition.

The Association for Rehabilitation of Communication and Oral Skills (ARCOS), has been named “outstanding” for the gardens of its headquarters, Hatherton Lodge, in Avenue Road.

The accolade has been made by the Royal Horticultural Society and Heart of England in Bloom as part of their 2021 It’s Your Neighbourhood Awards.

Outstanding is the highest grade that can be achieved.

ARCOS clinical director Kay Coombes said: "We are absolutely delighted with this award.

"The garden here is an important part of our headquarters – not just to look at but to use as an outdoor space for our clients and their families.

"We are fundraising to improve the garden and increase the resources available to include supported employment for ARCOS clients and their involvement in the local community through a small community café and horticultural therapy."

If you would like to be part of the bloom campaign for 2022, contact Lyndsey Davies at Malvern Town Council on 01684 566667 or by email ldavies@malvern-tc.org.uk.

Everyone is welcome; whether you are a seasoned gardener, a novice taking your first steps into horticulture or just have a general love of gardening.