First Minister of Wales the Rt Hon Carwyn Jones took time out of his hectic schedule last Thursday to wish good luck to volunteers preparing for Usk’s entry in the RHS Britain in Bloom Champion of Champions competition next month.

He was welcomed at Twyn Square by the Chairman of Usk in Bloom Tony Kear and shown around the stunning floral displays - described by locals and visitors as the best they had ever seen in Usk. He was then shown how ‘flower fever’ has spread all over the town.

After meeting Deputy Mayor Councillor Tim Keenan he planted an apple tree in the new community garden at the Sessions House and toured the Mather Jackson Library there - the largest private collection of historic law books in the UK.

Tony Kear said afterwards, “We’re absolutely delighted and thank the First Minister for taking time out of his busy diary to see and hear of the incredible work our volunteers undertake each year to visibly boost the appearance of Usk and also the economic vibrancy.

“We are extremely honoured to be representing Wales in the RHS Britain in Bloom Champions of Champions entry this year and such support from the highest level has been a timely boost as we prepare for the judging day on August 5.”

Usk in Bloom, now a registered charity was formed in 1981 and has won Wales in Bloom for 33 consecutive years.

Judging for this year’s entry took place on Saturday July 18 with the result being announced in September.

During his visit the First Minister was made aware of the year long activities and planning that is required to maintain the high standards designed now primarily to attract visitors to Usk and boost economic activity amongst the town’s small businesses.

The financial challenges were also highlighted as well as the immense community contributions across all age groups, conservation schemes and the work of Usk Civic Society, all of which are constituent parts of the judging.

The highly successful volunteer-based fundraising includes an annual auction in the Nags Head where 135 lots donated by local supportive businesses were auctioned in March and raised £7,000 in three hours.

Carwyn Jones said he was pleased to be able to visit Usk and meet some of the volunteers who were playing such an important role in putting together a series of activities attracting visitors and boosting local businesses.

“They are already award winners in Wales and I wish them all the best with their forthcoming RHS Britain in Bloom Champions of Champions entry,” he said.