IT could be the climate, the exceptionally hot summer or even the splendid soil of Monmouthshire - but most people will point to the dedication and expertise of the gardeners of Usk as the town celebrates taking gold in the Royal Horticultural Society’s 2018 Britain in Bloom awards.

Usk competed in the ‘best of the best’ Champion of Champions category and scooped a gold medal, just missing out on the top prize to Truro in Cornwall.

Five groups were chosen to fly the flag for the nation following success in the Wales in Bloom competition the previous year; Usk, Fishguard & Goodwick, Wolfscastle, Colwyn Bay and Rhuddlan.

A total of 76 groups from across the UK competed in 12 categories with each also vying for a gold, silver gilt, silver or bronze medal. All battled what judges have declared the toughest year on record with communities nationwide fighting to keep blooms alive.

With over three decades of success in the competition, Usk is known as the ‘town of flowers’ and has been transformed through the hard work of its dedicated team of volunteers.

Standout features this year included local resident Marion Powell’s front garden that the judges said, ‘Would grace any Chelsea Flower Show’, also commended were the primary school’s garden and Girl Guides floral patch with pollinator-friendly planting.