Stevenage has done blooming well yet again. It has followed up its Anglia in Bloom top success the previous week with a silver medal in the small city category at the national Britain in Bloom awards. This is the first time that Stevenage has made the fin

Stevenage has done blooming well yet again.

It has followed up its Anglia in Bloom top success the previous week with a silver medal in the small city category at the national Britain in Bloom awards.

This is the first time that Stevenage has made the final. It came third behind Shrewsbury and Bath.

Mayor Simon Speller and Cllr John Gardner accepted the award last Thursday in Perth, Scotland.

Cllr Speller said: "We are absolutely delighted to win a silver medal. This is an outstanding achievement considering it is the first time Stevenage has made the finals of Britain in Bloom and the lessons we have learned will ensure even more success in future. Stevenage should be very proud."

Sue Myson, executive councillor for community and culture, said: "This award honours the achievements of Stevenage residents, schools and businesses and rewards their commitment and community spirit in maintaining and improving their local environment."

And executive councillor for environment and e-government Richard Henry added: "This is a tremendous accolade for our community and national recognition for our modern, vibrant and green environment. It is also testament to the hard work and dedication of the council's employees."

Britain in Bloom is the largest award of its kind in Europe and incorporates floral planting, cleanliness, conservation, recycling and other environmental issues.