The clouds lifted and the sun shone on those judging the floral displays in Ross-on-Wye yesterday (Tuesday).
Heart of England in Bloom judges Les Goodman and David Wassall joined dignitaries from Ross on a tour of the town to view the efforts made by residents, shopkeepers and traders to brighten up the area with floral displays in red, orange and yellow.
Despite gloomy weather first thing, by the time the group had reached the riverside blue skies had appeared and the judges were smiling.
The Mayor, Councillor John Davies, and the lady Mayoress joined in the fun with members of the council, Ross in Bloom committee members, Joyce Thomas MBE DL, and young Darcy Victor Trott, this year’s carnival princess.
Some residents and Girl Guides also met up at the riverside to take part in the celebrations and show the judges that the In Bloom competition is an important part of the summer season in Ross.
After welcoming the judges at the Royal Hotel, a tour of the town was made possible because of the loan of a minibus and driver for the day from the WRVS.
Mary Sinclair Powell said: “We would like to thank the WRVS and the Royal Hotel for their sponsorship that has made the logistics easier.”
After a press photocall at the riverside the group made their way to the Heritage Centre to see the children’s Gardens on a Tray entries, the John Kyrle High School art exhibition and to talk to stallholders at the charities market being held at the Market House.
They then embarked on a mammoth tour of the town which finished with a tour of the Roman dig and the chance for a cuppa and a chat back at the Royal Hotel.
