An annual gardening competition in Thetford has celebrated the hard work and creativity of neighbours and businesses.

With a high number of entries, the Thetford in Bloom Awards 2024 was a success, culminating in a awards evening at Thetford Guildhall on July 19.

Terry Land, chairman of Thetford Town Council's Community and Environmental Services Committee, said: "As a first-time judge it was a real privilege to be able to go around the town looking at the hard work, ingenuity, and inspiring designs of so many residents.

"Despite the cool and wet spring that has set gardens back, the overall standard was incredibly high, making judging an exacting task.

1st Place in the Environmental Project category went to The British Trust for Ornithology, Thetford 1st Place in the Environmental Project category went to The British Trust for Ornithology, Thetford (Image: Submitted)

"The awards night was equally special.

"I must pay tribute to everybody who was entered as well as the hard work of Thetford Town Council's Town Team, without whom this contest would not have happened.”

The community competition, which ran from May to June, honoured those who contributed towards the town's aesthetics through their front garden displays as well as via local environmental projects.

Among the winners from various categories were residents of Fulmerston Close, Monksgate, and Woodruff Road, who bagged the awards for Best Front Garden.

Turner Funerals, Mark Skinner Funeral Service, and Coronation House Care Home were praised for their floral business displays.

Special recognition went to the Thetford in Bloom volunteers Special recognition went to the Thetford in Bloom volunteers (Image: Submitted)

The British Trust for Ornithology, Thetford and Admirals Junior School won the Environmental project category while Roseanne Gough and Jane Rowlston were hailed as the Environmental Champions.

Special recognition awards were granted to a host of hardworking volunteers contributing to Thetford Conservation Volunteer Group and other environmental initiatives in town.

The winners received a certificate of achievement and a voucher for Thetford Garden Centre, with those given special recognition receiving a Certificate of Recognition for their contributions.