Three ladies who have given more than 30 years service to the town as part of Ross in Bloom were thrilled when their achievements were recognised by the Association of Ross Traders.

During the visit of the Heart of England in Bloom judges to Ross Mary Powell, Lyn Tomlinson and Margaret Lucas were presented with the John Kyrle Shield for Community Spirit.

Lyn told the Gazette:?"We are honoured to be next to Alan Wood on the shield."

Margaret added:?"It has been a difficult year in many ways and without Mary I could not have kept going as Chairman but we have always done everything we do in Ross in Bloom for the town because we want visitors to appreciate it as much as we do."

The first member of the trio to join Ross in Bloom was Mary Powell who was recruited by Mary Dew when she took over the former Keep Britain Tidy competition 15 years ago.

When Mary Dew retired as Chairman she became Life President and Lyn took over as Chairman in 2000. Mary said:?"Lots of other people have helped over the years but Margaret has lasted the longest."

She said the biggest misconception people have is that they just work for one day, when the judges visit. She said it is nice there is a focus on one special day but it is the community involvement we can show to the judges that wins us the most marks in the competition.

Mary intends to carry on helping with Blake Gardens and of course all three are very interested to know what happens on September 6th and September 13th when the results are announced.

Mary added that they have always received lots of support from the town and they hope someone will come forward to take over the running of Ross in Bloom. She said all three will be prepared to give their support and advice whenever they are asked.