gardeners and colourful businesses were just some of those praised for being the best at a presentation evening.

The private and public sector winners in this year's Lowestoft in Bloom contest were honoured at the town hall on Friday as the successful prize-winners received their certificates and trophies from the mayor of Lowestoft, Nigel Dack.

Derek Gower, retiring chairman of Lowestoft in Bloom, thanked everyone for supporting the competition and for the efforts put in each year to make the competition such a success.

'We hope to see everyone back next year and, hopefully, introduce a friend to make it even better,' he added.

A silver gilt award certificate was presented for the town's competition success in the Coastal category.

Some of the current committee are also stepping down.

'We are looking for more people to come and join us,' said Gloria Honeywood, of Lowestoft In Bloom.

'We are an easy-going group, and the satisfaction we get from our activities is immense.

'Lowestoft has so many great things going for it, and we would like to see it looking even more attractive for our own enjoyment and for our visitors.'

If you have new ideas or would like to help promote Lowestoft with the group, find out more about the team from Gloria on 01502 564007, Irene on 01502 582187 or Derek on 01502 569450.

People are also welcome to attend any committee meetings; the group meets on the first Monday of the month at 7.15pm at the Waveney Norse Depot.

Among the numerous winners receiving their prizes were Mrs Knights, of Rounces Lane, who won the Christian Salvesen Shield for best entrant overall; Mrs Chilvers, of Colville Road, who won the Persimmon Shield for the most outstanding improvement; and Carlton Court, which won the Alan Edgington Shield for its themed flower beds.

After winning two awards at the Lowestoft in Bloom schools' section a fortnight ago, Foxborough Middle School's action team will be holdng a Big Tidy Up event on Friday, November 5.

This will be held at Foxborough Middle from 3.30pm to 4.30pm, and the team is keen for other interested people to go along and help out.

'We would be very appreciative of any help from anyone in the wider community, as we want to tidy up our school grounds and the surrounding area,' said Sheryl Bucknole and Lloyd Bullent, year nine members of the team.

'We have held many Big Tidy Ups in the past and would like this one to be a success too.'