While Britain waits with bated breath for any gold medals in this year’s Olympic Games, Usk has already won gold from the Wales in Bloom competition. Chalking up an amazing 27th consecutive First Place in the ‘Large Village’ section of the annual nation-wide competition, the town has also received a gold medal. Gold is awarded to entrants who achieve more than 170 points out of the available 200 in the judging, and Usk’s score of 173 made them certain medal winners.

The competition has long ceased to be solely about hanging baskets and community displays, although these are still tremendously important. Now the judging also considers sustainability, environmental issues, litter, recycling, and the gardeners of the future.

Wales in Bloom judge Jim Goodwin was given a whistle-stop tour of the town which included a tour of the gardens of Usk Primary school, led by the most enthusiastic gardeners of all, the children themselves.

David Gale, Chairman of Usk in Bloom, said, “We were lucky to have a sunny day when the hot colours of our town displays were shown to advantage, but it has again been a difficult year for gardeners, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all those who have helped to enhance the appearance of our town.”

He went on, “The floral appeal of Usk is a result of a great deal of hard work from the Usk in Bloom Friends, the gardeners and businesses of Usk. It is this sense of pride, community spirit and well-being which sets Usk apart from other communities. Long may it continue.”