Radstock is celebrating another floral success, after winning Gold again at the South West In Bloom competition. The area has done extremely well in these awards, with community groups all coming together to make our area more colourful – a difficult task this year with the weather so changeable.

The theme for 2012 was 'Celebrate!' with a focus on the Queen's Jubilee, the Olympics and Paralympics. The Radstock In Bloom entry was awarded Gold in the Ayre Cup section of the South West In Bloom competition. Those photographed represent Meadow View, Writhlington Village Hall, Fosse Green, Cam Valley Wildlife and Radstock Residents' Association respectively. In the 'It's Your Neighbourhood' Awards section, Meadow View Residents, St Mary's CofE Primary School, Writhlington and the Writhlington School Orchid Project all got 'outstanding' certificates, while Haydon residents also improved their award rating on 2011 with 'thriving' (Level 4). Fosse Green Residents, Clandown received ('improving'), a remarkable achievement for entries only in their second year. Writhlington Village Hall won an award, too, but need more volunteers to realise all their ideas.

In fact, more volunteers are needed generally, because although Radstock Town Council and Bath and North East Somerset Council gave these groups all the support they could, the committee agreed to take on more beds on the Greenway, previously done by professionals.

The committee are also indebted to Radstock Co-operative Society, the Radstock Traders and Radstock Museum for their sponsorship, as well as to private individuals and businesses who donated money and time. Somer Valley Rotary Club's long term commitment to working with young people on the Hope House Surgery bed is particularly useful.

It is hoped that there will soon be a Radstock in Bloom website and a dedicated community noticeboard by the Victoria Hall, but volunteers may contact Gary Dando (01761 432739), Eleanor Jackson (01761 436277) and Esther Parker (01761 434600) in the meantime. As the Chair, Gary Dando said: 'This is a fantastic result, but we want to do even better next year!"

The next meeting of Radstock in Bloom is this Thursday, 27th September at 7.30 p.m. at Radstock Methodist Church Hall, The Street, Radstock. If you have ideas for next year, or can help with gardening or fund-raising, please come along