GREEN-FINGERED gardeners have been going for gold at this summer's Maldon in Bloom awards.

Judges handed out dozens of gold awards at this year's awards.

The Plume Academy was overall winner of the best school green project and was presented with the Sadd Cup for 2019.

A special award also went to the 1st Maldon Merlin Scout Troop for their excellent conservation work on Delph Ditch in the Promenade Park.

Town mayor Flo Shaughnessy said: "We have been thrilled by the number of entries into the competition this year, as well as the very high standard, reflected in the number of awards given by the judges."

Jenny Wood scooped the best front garden crown and Chelmer Terrace won the best florally decorated street title.

The Queen Victoria won the best florally decorated business, and the Friary Walled Garden was named the best communal gardens.

Sue Thomson won the best hanging basket title, while Francis Jarvis was won best allotment.

Longfields took the best care home title.

Many others also won gold awards in the long list of categories.

Mrs Shaughnessy added: "More and more people seem to be enjoying getting involved, especially as part of a team working on a specific area needing some TLC, and as a result, Maldon is looking lovelier than ever.”