THORNBURY has again been commended for its beautiful array of flowers and blooms dotted all across the town during a prestigious regional competition. 

Thornbury In Bloom achieved a gold medal and was crowned winner of the Portman Cup in the  Britain In Bloom South West annual awards. 

Volunteers recently received the award on behalf of the group at a ceremony in Truro Cathedral.

In particular, Thornbury was praised for its community involvement. 

It comes following a difficult year and where members say they are running short of both funds and supporters.

Volunteers are now asking for individuals or businesses to come forward and get involved. 

A spokesperson said: “This year Thornbury had changed its category which is based on population size. 

“We were competing for the Portman Cup and were up against previous winners Wellington, Tiverton and Brixham.  

“As with the Royal Horticultural Society flower shows a medal is awarded, bronze, silver, silver gilt or gold which indicates you have achieved a certain standard.

Gazette Series: The beautiful Rock Street garden was nominated as an example of outstanding horticulture by a non-municipal group in the awardsThe beautiful Rock Street garden was nominated as an example of outstanding horticulture by a non-municipal group in the awards (Image: Thornbury In Bloom)

Gazette Series: Team leaders Jim & Janet Hollister, co-chairs Fran Sparrow & Jean Owen and Lady Emma Fellowes at the awardsTeam leaders Jim & Janet Hollister, co-chairs Fran Sparrow & Jean Owen and Lady Emma Fellowes at the awards (Image: Thornbury In Bloom)

“Then from the top medals one town is chosen as the overall winner.
 
“After a difficult year the Thornbury team, led by Jean Owen and Fran Sparrow, was overjoyed to win a gold medal and then even more delighted to be awarded The Portman Cup as being judged the best entry in our class.
 
“Jean and Fran emphasised that the award is for everyone who has helped in any way. 

“From fundraising and event organising to weeding, planting and dead-heading! 
 
“The Rock Street Gardens were nominated for being an example of outstanding Horticulture by a non-municipal group and congratulations are due to the team that work tirelessly there and on The Boats opposite The Anchor Inn on The Gloucester Road.
 

Gazette Series: The boats - named Annie and Betty - opposite The Anchor Inn on Gloucester RoadThe boats - named Annie and Betty - opposite The Anchor Inn on Gloucester Road (Image: Thornbury In Bloom)

“After celebrating their success, the thoughts of the team are now turned to the future of Thornbury In Bloom. 

“Sadly the group is now running short of both funds and supporters. 

“If anyone as individuals or businesses would like to get involved please contact Jean at T& J Owen, email thornburyinbloom@yahoo.co.uk or message the team via the Facebook page.

“The AGM is November 28 upstairs at The Swan on The High Street at 7.30pm, please come along and show your support.  
 
“You could help shape and move Thornbury in Bloom through the next year(s).”