WIMBORNE is celebrating after winning gold at the Regional South and South East in Bloom Awards.

The gong is the fourth gold award to be added to their collection however it is the first time Wimborne has won in the Town Category.

Wimborne became eligible to enter for the title after seeing a population increase in the town. It had previously won awards in the Small Town Category.

Richard Nunn, Chairman of Wimborne in Bloom, said: “Not only were we in a new category, but we won it at the first attempt. It justly reflects on the hard work put in by many, the committee members, members and supporters and all the public who have supported us.”

Redcotts Recreation Ground won a Silver Gilt Award while Anthony Oliver, the former chairman and founder of the group 25 years ago, was awarded one of the Region’s Outstanding Contribution Awards for 2017. He said it was a “real surprise” to win the award.

Councillor Terry Wheeler, Mayor of Wimborne, will present the prizes for the Wimborne in Bloom local competition on Saturday at Allenbourn Middle School.

Prizes for the art and poetry competitions will take place at 2.30pm with the main competition prize-giving at 3.15pm. Everyone is welcome.