EVESHAM'S deputy mayor was on hand to celebrate the grounds of the town's schools today (Tuesday) as he presented the Schools in Bloom awards.

The competition, which is supported by the town council, recognises schools which get pupils involved in growing plants, flowers and crops, and learning about the environment around them.

Earlier in the year the judges and deputy mayor, councillor Fred Kaler, visited the five schools taking part, Swan Lane, St Mary's, Bengeworth, Vale of Evesham, and St Richard's, and were blown away by the displays, the knowledge and enthusiasm of the children.

The overall winner was chosen as St Mary's Catholic Primary School, but Cllr Kaler commented on how impressed he had been with all the schools.

"It was absolutely fantastic," he said. "The kids were a real inspiration. The way the children were answering questions was great. It was a joy and a real privilege to be going round and judging and I learnt a lot."

Jackie Smith, headteacher at St Mary's, added: "We were delighted and it was lovely the children were able to see the presentation. I know there was a big cheers when they heard we were the winners.

"It's great because a lot of people have put a lot of hard work into the grounds, and all the children are involved in some way."