A Borders volunteer group has been recognised at a national award this week.

Lauder in Bloom received a Gold certificate at the Royal Horticultural society’s Britain in Bloom at a ceremony at Manchester Old Trafford Centre on Monday, October 21.

The group were up against seven other finalists from across the UK in the large village category with Cullybackey Community Partnership winning the category.

Juliette Camburn, senior officer, community Initiatives at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “It’s wonderful to see Lauder in Bloom recognised for the amazing community work they do in the Scottish Borders.”

Judges visited 52 groups across the country over the summer assessing each in three categories:  horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community participation.  

The group were one of four Scottish finalists at the ceremony alongside North Berwick in Bloom, Bonnie Dundee and Forres in Bloom.

All the Scottish finalists are a part of Keep Scotland Beautiful and Nature Friendly Communities Network.

Darren Share, chair of the RHS Britain in Bloom judges, said: “Each group demonstrated the creativity, hard work, and commitment to sustainability that Britain in Bloom has championed for six decades.

“It is wonderful to see the passion and dedication of these hardworking groups in bringing together communities across the UK and make a lasting impact on our local environments.”