KEEN gardeners were rewarded with an awards ceremony that celebrated their success at turning their gardens into beautiful havens.

Fortis Living announced the winners of this year’s gardening competition at Meadow Court, Worcester.

The annual event rewards green-fingered residents for their know-how in their gardens.

Audrey Jones from Worcester won best front garden while Margaret Gentry, from Worcester, was runner-up.

Nicky Johnson-Jones from Broadwas won best rear garden while the runner-up was Mary Baylis from Malvern.

Margaret Gentry from Worcester won the category for best containers and hanging baskets with Rachel Whelan from Droitwich as the runner up.

St Michael’s in Ledbury won best communal garden, with The Cedars in Malvern as the runners-up.

Mary Baylis from Malvern won most improved garden while Sharon Boalch from Worcester was the runner-up.

Pam Davis from Worcester won Champion of Champions while Mike Brodie from Lullowfield House in Droitwich was the runner up.

Clare Jackson, executive director housing care and communities said: “We are delighted to announce the winners of this year’s gardening competition.

"The quality of entrants was outstanding and our judges had a tough job in making their decisions. 

"Well done to all our green-fingered residents.

“Here at Fortis we take our environmental responsibilities very seriously and this was one of the reasons that we introduced such a competition. 

"Encouraging people to take part in such initiatives not only celebrates the great outdoors but also has a positive effect on health and well-being. Look out for details on next year’s competition.”

Judge Bill Simpson, former principal of Pershore College said: “The standard was very high this year considering the hot dry summer we experienced. 

"All entrants are to be congratulated on the pride taken in their garden – from hanging baskets and containers to the large, extensive communal gardens.

"As judges we marked these achievements with Gold, Silver Gilt, Silver or Bronze awards with the winners and runners-up receiving an engraved trophy.”

Winners in each category received £100 each in gardening vouchers at the ceremony on Thursday, September 6.