THOSE who have made Shanklin look beautiful this summer have been recognised by the judges of Shanklin in Bloom.

One of the worthy winners was Shanklin Theatre.

During the long closure of the theatre, from March 2020 to July 2021, due to Covid, the planters and borders around the theatre had been neglected.

But with the re-opening of the theatre in sight, a newly formed team of volunteer gardeners started to tackle the issue.

By the time the theatre re-opened, the planters and borders were in tip-top condition with a wonderful array of colours displayed.

The Friends of Shanklin Theatre team was very excited to jointly win the category for schools, churches, youth clubs and community group gardens.

Volunteer Alex, one the gardeners, said: "It’s been hard work but very rewarding. We are a new team of volunteers and it’s been such a pleasure making the theatre look so attractive for our community and all the lovely visitors."

Shanklin in Bloom's committee members — Maureen, Dawn and Sofie — said: "After a difficult year it has been encouraging to see so many entries and gardens of such a high standard.

"We would like to thank all those that entered and to all that support Shanklin in Bloom."

Results: Front garden — 1st 20 St Martin's Avenue and 11 Victoria Ave, 2nd Garden House, Westhill Road, 3rd 45 Downland View, highly commended 4 Fir Tree Close; small front garden — 1st 1 Prospect Mews, 2nd Grange Road (undisclosed number), 3rd 16 St Boniface Cliff Road and 11 Western Road; pots and tubs — 1st 8 St Boniface Cliff Road, 2nd 17a Victoria Avenue, 3rd 3 Chantry Court; schools, churches, youth clubs and community group gardens — 1st Friends of Shanklin Theatre and Shanklin Green Towns; pubs, clubs and cafes — 1st Shanklin Conservative Club, 2nd Shanklin Bowling Club; flats, condominiums and shared gardens — 1st Rychris Court; guest houses — 1st Clifton.