Green-fingered tenants and leaseholders were recently crowned winners of Uttlesford District Council's gardening competition.

Awards were presented in four categories. Richard Hurry from Chesterford won for best garden, Reynolds Court in Newport for best communal garden, and Barry Richardson from Saffron Walden for best tub or pot.

Meanwhile Melanie Proctor from Stansted was presented with the award for the tallest sunflower - at a massive 3.5m.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Melanie Proctor and leader of the council Cllr Petrina Lees with the 3.5m sunflowerMelanie Proctor and leader of the council Cllr Petrina Lees with the 3.5m sunflower (Image: Uttlesford District Council)

Council chair Cllr Geof Driscoll and his consort Angie presented the winners with a certificate and gardening vouchers.

The competition - which was open to all of the council's tenants and leaseholders - was judged by the council's environmental services supervisor Steve King, who said he was "hugely impressed" with the quality of the entries.

READ MORE

He said: "It was an absolute pleasure to be able to be part of the garden competition – the time and care the participants have taken to enjoy their surroundings was uplifting to see.

"There were so many different ideas and visions. It was very difficult to come to a final decision as anyone who takes the time to make their surroundings better for themselves and wildlife deserves to win.

"Congratulations to everyone who entered – you all deserve to be winners! Keep up the work and I look forward to next year."