ONE of Dorset's most blooming beautiful towns has won a gold award at a regional competition.

For the fifth successive year, Wimborne has claimed a top prize at the South and South East in Bloom contest, the finals of which took place in Brighton last week.

Wimborne was the winner of the 'town' category for the second year. It was also announced as 'county' winner by achieving the highest score of all Dorset 'in Bloom' entries.

Judges called the area a "town of flowers" and said residents "entered into the spirit with floral displays everywhere you looked".

Wimborne in Bloom chairman Richard Nunn said he was "delighted" with the wins.

"The public recognition rewards the hard work and support given by so many people and supporters together with a hard-working committee," he said.

Special thanks were given to companies Dutch Touch and Beecroft Nurseries for their support.

The town's own awards ceremony for the local 'in Bloom' competition takes place this Saturday, September 22 at Allenbourn Middle School.