BRITAIN in Bloom judges Roger Bache and Mark Wiltshire arrived in Stroud in Monday to examine the town's beautiful flower displays and learn about community initiatives.

The pair were welcomed at The Imperial Hotel by town crier Tony Evans and a group of civic personalities including representatives from the Stroud in Bloom committee and Stroud Town Council.

During their morning in the town the judges visited many areas including Doctor Newtons Way, Parliament Street, Summer Crescent, Stroud Hospital, Stroud Valley Primary School, Merrywalks, Beeches Green, Stratford Road, and Park Gardens.

They also looked at the colourful hanging baskets and shopfronts in the town centre.

Mr Bache said: "We were looking for evidence of community involvement in keeping the town neat and tidy and are also interested in community initiatives such as Stroud's no plastic bag policy."

Last year Stroud scooped the second highest award in the Heart of England in Bloom awards - the regional category of Britain in Bloom.

The town was awarded the silver-gilt award because judges were impressed with floral displays in the town centre, the restored archway and shelter in Park Gardens, landscaping at Stroud College, the recycling effort and the litter-free and well-swept environment.

Results of this year's judging will be announced in September.

Meanwhile, more than £1,000 has been donated to the SNJ's Save our Stroud in Bloom appeal, which was launched after committee members revealed that without extra help and fundraising next year's event would have to be cancelled.

SIB chairman Malcolm Tarling says the group needs around £3,000.

To make a donation, no matter how small, send a cheque made payable to Stroud in Bloom to 92 Boverton Drive, Brockworth, GL3 4BS or to Stroud Town Council offices in London Road, Stroud.

* Comment on the displays in Stroud here...