The Friends of Ore Station have been judged as ‘Outstanding’ in the South & South East In Bloom competition.

It is the highest level that the judges can award.

The group was awarded marks for Community Participation, Environmental Responsibility and Gardening Achievement. They achieved an overall score of 87 out of 100 which ranked them as ‘Outstanding’.

The judges said: “This project is a great example of how co-operation and commitment between stakeholders, volunteers, local groups, charities and organisations can, by working together, make a real difference to the environment and the lives of local people.”

Lead volunteer Suzanne Horgan said she was “delighted” the group had reached this level after only their second year.

The judges are encouraging the Friends to enter a higher category next year.