UPTON Wood has scooped a silver gilt in the prestigious South and South East in Bloom Conservation Awards.

Judges awarded the woods 144 points out of a maximum 200 in categories including conservation, facilities and community participation.

He award has been welcomed by Purbeck District Council and the army of volunteers who have worked tirelessly to maintain the area.

Cllr Gloria Marsh, the district council’s natural environment spokesman, said: “This is a great achievement for the volunteers who have worked so hard to maintain and improve the wood and also for Purbeck District Council who own and manage the site.

“The award is a tribute to the many volunteer groups, schools and local residents who help make Upton Wood such a special place.

“It has been a great opportunity to showcase the wood.”