IT seemed as if the whole village had turned out to welcome the RHS Heart of England judges Robin and Laura on July 7 and the village hall was packed for the presentation given by Yvonne Rose, chair of Pebworth in Bloom. She reminded everyone of this year’s many events - for example the Pumpkin Party, the Christmas wreath –making workshop, the Footpath Day; the fundraising bulb and plant sales ; the ongoing projects including the new conservation areas, the restoration of a redundant telephone box to house the village defibrillator ; the hugely successful Open Gardens, the Scarecrow competition & the Party in the Park produce show– all made possible through the hard work and support of many, many volunteers. One resident said living in Pebworth is “ like living in one wonderful garden”. The judges visited a newly created garden at Wesley Gardens, admired the beautifully kept memorial area and churchyard, listened attentively to the explanation given by the children at Pebworth School of what they were growing, and appreciated the immaculate verges, the hanging baskets and the beautiful floral containers outside people’s homes. Most of all they appreciated the amount of support the campaign receives from residents. Last year the village was awarded gold – everyone is keeping fingers crossed for a similar award this year.

J McLEISH