SOME new names are in the winning line-up for this year s Royston in Bloom contest. Martin Dawson, of Briary Lane, won overall gold in the best front garden category, ahead of defending champion Barry Fulton. Mr Dawson said: I must admit I was a bit surp

SOME new names are in the winning line-up for this year's Royston in Bloom contest.

Martin Dawson, of Briary Lane, won overall gold in the best front garden category, ahead of defending champion Barry Fulton.

Mr Dawson said: "I must admit I was a bit surprised as the wind did some damage the previous day, but I am very pleased."

And in the best kept allotment section, Tony Churchman claimed overall gold, ahead of last year's winner Adrian Turrell.

Elsewhere, Josephine Cook, of St Mary's Park, made it five wins in a row in the best front container garden section.

She said: "I was knocked over - it was a lovely surprise.

"My favourites are the begonias and fuchsias - the colours are gorgeous."

And in the best front garden (easy maintenance) class, Mary Hails secured her third consecutive gold award.

She said: "I was really delighted, I didn't think I had any chance of winning it this year.

"I wish I could spend more time out there, but I have to work as well!"

Tannery Drift School won gold again, in the best young persons' project section.

The school holds a lunchtime gardening club for Year 3 and Year 4 pupils, and nursery and reception children can also join in.

Headteacher Anna Greetham said: "We are very pleased to have won again.

"Particularly this year we have done an awful lot of extra work around the grounds and school.

"The whole school has been involved in planting and watering."

And the North Star Pub retained gold in the best pub and commercial premises category.

Landlady Michelle Thake said: "We have worked very hard, so we are all very pleased that we have won the award."

Gold in the best kept street or community area class went to Collingwood Court, ahead of 1-3 King's Walk, and last year's winner Downlands.