LUDLOW in Bloom has won gold again in the Heart of England in Bloom Awards.

There has been concern that the town could miss out on the top accolade this year because instead of a visit by judged, the competition was judged in a different way.

It involved submitting a portfolio including written evidence and photographs.

Concerns were exacerbated when days before the result was due to be announced, Vivienne Parry, who leads the ‘in bloom’ group was asked to submit further information.

Mrs Parry said she much prefers a system in which judges come and see for themselves but it was changed this year because of Covid-19.

The annual competition was not held in 2020 because of the virus.

But the latest success means that only three times in the past 20 years has Ludlow failed to get the top award.

The trophy cabinet is full of gold but it can never be taken for granted.

A small army of volunteers supported by Ludlow Town Council helps to keep the town looking floral and fragrant every year.

This year there was an appeal made for people to come forward and help to make sure the plants were watered during a very hot spell.

There was another problem when one of the scarecrows that formed part of the town centre display disappeared.

But it was a case of ‘all’s well that ends well.’