GREAT gardeners who defied the summer’s inclement weather were honoured at the Royston in Bloom awards evening.

The event, held at Royston Town Hall, saw prizes presented to winners in six different categories from the town’s In Bloom competition.

Les Baker, chairman of the Royston in Bloom committee, said: “In spite of the difficulties with the weather this year, everyone again showed much enthusiasm for the competition.”

Categories included a special competition to design a garden around the theme of the London 2012 Olympics or the Queen’s jubilee.

“The judges were certainly impressed by the way those entering the competition had taken up the challenge of either theme and created some original displays,” said Mr Baker.

Mayor of Royston Cllr Lindsay Davidson was a member of the judging panel and presented the awards. Greneway School won the Tom Potter Trophy for best young persons project, while the Bill Prime Trophy for best young persons project using recycled material went to Tannery Drift School.

Chris Wallis scooped the Best Allotment award, while the other winners were Peter Waller (Best Front Garden), Richard Cox House residential home (Best Community Area) and Folknoll Group (Best Pub/Commercial Premises Garden).

The Royston in Bloom committee is now looking for volunteers to help with a bulb-planting operation on Saturday November 3.

Mr Baker said: “It is not an arduous task, but we would like to get the community involved in an exercise which will enhance an area which we believe will benefit from planting.”

The bulb-planting will be taking place on a site in Melbourn Road, near the underpass.

Willing volunteers can contact the town hall on 01763 245484 or e-mail jean. waldock@roystontowncouncil.gov.uk