ONE of Saffron Walden s most cherished facilities is aiming to be crowned Britain s best picnic spot. Bridge End Gardens has been nominated for the Warburtons National Bread Week Picnic Awards 2010 by Judith Thompson of Saffron Walden s Tourist Informatio

ONE of Saffron Walden's most cherished facilities is aiming to be crowned Britain's best picnic spot.

Bridge End Gardens has been nominated for the Warburtons National Bread Week Picnic Awards 2010 by Judith Thompson of Saffron Walden's Tourist Information Centre (TIC).

She believes that winning the award would prove a huge feather in the town's cap. "Winning the award would mean a lot to the town - the increase of awareness for the gardens would help to increase visitors and tourists," said Ms Thompson.

"The gardens are a lovely place to visit. I take friends there and they all love it, especially the children."

The restored Victorian gardens have undergone a massive transformation over the past few years. It has many different sections, including a rose garden, Dutch garden, hedge maze and the main lawn which is perfect for picnics.

Prize money for the competition - which is part of National Bread Week running from May 3-9 - is �500 which, if it won, would be put back into the gardens.

"We asked the gardeners what they would like to spend the prize money on," said Ms Thompson. "Originally they said a picnic bench, but a Victorian one would cost over �3000, so instead the money would be spent to rejuvenate the lawn."

Bridge End Gardens must first get through the regional heats of the competition to stand any chance of winning the national award.

To vote visit welovebread.co.uk or visit the TIC in Market Square for a form. The closing date is April 23.