NEWENT in Bloom has lots to celebrate after scooping the silver gilt award in the small town category of the Heart of England in Bloom contest.

The town was the only one in the Forest to enter the competition which is run by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

This achievement is particularly pleasing for the group as it is celebrating its 10th year as well as the RHS's 50th anniversary.

RHS judges praised the organisers of Newent in Bloom, Lynne Ashton, Rex Debenham and Sheila Stillwell as well as all the volunteers and helpers who made Newent look so 'magnificent'.