BRITAIN in Bloom judges were given a warm welcome in Ponteland this week, where they were able to admire the horticultural efforts of dedicated residents.

Judges in the small town category, Kate Dagnall and Brendan Mowforth, spent around two and a half hours touring the highlights of the town, and hearing about the work that goes on there to make it so impressive.

Ponteland is one of five finalists in Britain in the small towns category, and a volunteer group has dedicated months to making the town look its best.

The group of volunteers, led by former mayor Robin Ramsay and former town councillor Joyce Butcher, were supported by various local organisations, local businesses and Ponteland Community High School.

They have been weeding, litter picking, doing general tidying up and creating floral displays.

“It seems to have gone well,” said Mr Ramsay. “It’s been an excellent year, with so many people helping us with hands-on work in preparation for the event.

“It’s tremendous to have something like Britain in Bloom for people to get behind, and we have been supported 100 per cent. It has really pulled the community together.”

Judge Kate Dagnall said: “We have had a lovely walk through Ponteland Park and met various groups which have been involved in the work.

“We have also been to the shopping centre, to the church yard and town centre and had a walk along the river. We also had a drive through the Darras Hall estate, which was lovely.

“It’s been very much a whistle-stop trip, but it has been very enjoyable.”

Mr Mowforth added that the judges also heard about environmental work going on in the town and will take into consideration the community aspect of the work. He added: “There are some excellent flower displays in Ponteland.”

All finalists are being assessed on three key criteria: horticultural achievement, community participation and environmental responsibility.

The volunteers will find out if their hard work has paid off at the Royal Horticultural Society’s Britain in Bloom awards ceremony on October 27.