ALTON has taken silver this year as Ôrunner-upÕ in the Southern England in Bloom medium town category.

Narrowly pipped to the post by 2000 winners, Petersfield, Alton has been singled out as a high flyer, going from strength to strength in its relatively new bid for the title and building on last yearÕs achievement as Òbest improved entryÓ.

Alton town mayor John Smith was delighted with the news: ÒIt shows we are making an improvement - the town looks really good this year,Ó he said.

Mr Smith paid tribute to all those who have worked so hard this year to achieve this result. He gave thanks also to Garthowen Nurseries at Four Marks who had provided horticultural expertise and supplied the award winning hanging baskets.

ÒNext year we can build on this and hopefully come out top,Ó said the mayor.

According to Southern Tourist Board spokesman Marguerite Driver, the points differential between Alton and Petersfield was marginal. Alton, she said, had gained particular praise for its striking jubilee colour scheme and had taken great strides towards improvement.

ÒTaking part in Southern England in Bloom has made a tremendous difference to Alton. The appearance of the town has improved so much - it makes people who visit want to return to the town.Ó

Alton was also awarded a highly commended in the Best Hanging Basket Display category behind Winchester, while Petersfield took the award for the Best Floral Design.

The winners in this yearÕs prestigious Southern England in Bloom competition were announced last week at The Guildhall, Winchester. The prizes will be awarded at a ceremony to be held on October 17 at the Allendale Centre in Wimborne Minster.

Southern England in Bloom is one of ten participating regions in the ÔBritain in BloomÕ campaign which encourages all sectors of the community to work together to improve and enhance their community through the imaginative planting of trees, shrubs and flowers and the removal of litter.