THE inspectors have been and gone, the decisions have been made and today Cricklade Bloomers found out how they had done in the Britain in Bloom competition.

The team headed to the national final at Coventry Cathedral in an optimistic mood having just scooped gold in the regional competition.

The town was judged on August 1 and it is clear inspectors Jon Wheatly and Carolyn Wilson were impressed by what they saw.

Cricklade Bloomers chairwoman Anita Barratt said: "It's a very difficult competition and there were about 350 people there.

"We are getting excited and hoping we come back with something for the town."

Whatever happens at the ceremony today Cricklade residents can take pride in their work so far.

The town was the overall winner, taking the Ayre Cup for the best small town in the south west.

Cricklade also won a number of Neighbourhood Awards which go to residents who have taken it upon themselves to improve their area.

The residents of Abingdon Court Farm were ranked as outstanding, which is the highest accolade available.

The people of Cricklade Leisure Centre, Parsonage Farm, Gas Lane and the Friends of St Mary's were all given merits for their work.

Anita said: "It's the first time we have done the Neighbourhood Awards.

"It's just for small groups of people who decide to look after their own area and improve it.

"We are hoping to encourage more people to enter the scheme because it's nice to be rewarded for their efforts."

Anita says the beauty of the blooms in Cricklade is not the only benefit of all the hard work.

"We know it's brought a lot of people together," she said.

"We have got people working together who maybe didn't know who their neighbours were, and children are getting involved too.

"Thanks have to go to the Cricklade Bloomers committee and volunteers.

"They are an amazing team, taking on many tasks from planting to sweeping streets and gutters, but always with enthusiasm and a smile.

"Thanks must also go to Cricklade's residents and businesses who have taken a pride in the town.

"The number of plots and hanging baskets that are displayed for all to enjoy are too many to count. The town really does look fantastic."

The results of the judging will be announced on Thursday.