A PRESTIGIOUS award was presented to Hexham Mayor Derek Kennedy by volunteer group Hexham in Bloom.

Hexham won a Gold Award certificate at the Northumbria in Bloom Awards for the town's gardens and overall appearance, along with other awards including Hexham Cemetary winning Gold and Best in Class.

Hexham Golf Club won Gold and Best in Class.

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Following Hexham's success at the Northumbria in Bloom awards, Julia Miller, chair of Hexham in Bloom, was delighted to present the Mayor with the prestigious Gold Award certificate for the town.

Also present were Joao Correira, treasurer of Hexham in Bloom, Jane Hope, secretary of Hexham in Bloom, and Hexham Town Councillor Ginnie O'Farrell.

The award for the town covers all gardens, parks and the overall appearance of the town.

The Gold Award is the culmination of efforts by Hexham in Bloom, Northumberland County Council, Hexham Town Council, and Hexham's volunteer gardening groups.

Julia said: "It is very pleasing to see everyone's hard work rewarded and thanks are due to all those involved in achieving success in the various categories.

"I am looking forward to working with all the interested parties next year to follow up this year's success," she added.