Wisbech has again narrowly missed out on winning a top national award, but it didn’t come away empty-handed.

Wisbech Standard: From left: Brian Massingham and Penny Stocks of Wisbech in Bloom, judges Darren Share and Jon Wheatley, Fenland District Council’s Bob Ollier, Tony Twitchett and Roy Claxton of Wisbech Arles Twinning Club, Magali Bruchou and Gaynor Claxton.From left: Brian Massingham and Penny Stocks of Wisbech in Bloom, judges Darren Share and Jon Wheatley, Fenland District Council’s Bob Ollier, Tony Twitchett and Roy Claxton of Wisbech Arles Twinning Club, Magali Bruchou and Gaynor Claxton. (Image: Archant)

For the second year running, Wisbech had to settle for a Silver Gilt award in the Large Town category at Britain In Bloom’s annual awards.

There was some consolation for the group’s secretary Penny Stocks, who was awarded a special certificate in recognition of her work for In Bloom over the years.

RHS judges Jon Wheatley and Darren Share were shown around many of the town’s landmarks in July.

Commenting on Wisbech in Bloom’s efforts, the judges said: “It is very clear that everyone is passionate and committed to make Wisbech a better place to live and work.

Wisbech Standard: Brian Massingham presented Penny Stocks with a photo of her receiving her community champion award at the Britain in Bloom Awards. She got the award for her work for Wisbech In Bloom over more than 20 years.Brian Massingham presented Penny Stocks with a photo of her receiving her community champion award at the Britain in Bloom Awards. She got the award for her work for Wisbech In Bloom over more than 20 years. (Image: Archant)

“We particularly liked the resourcefulness of the group and how they find solutions to any problems they encounter.

“The gardens at the National Trust property were a real highlight of the judges tour.”

Wisbech In Bloom chairman Brian Massingham said: “We’re obviously a little bit disappointed but we shouldn’t be too down-hearted. Winning a Silver Gilt is still a fantastic result.

“I’d like to thank all the team and all the individuals and businesses who have helped us for their great support.

Wisbech Standard: Centenary Green, by Octavia Hill's Birthplace House, was awarded an Its Your Neighbourhood certificate of distinction. Peter Clayton, right, and David Crouch, left, are pictured in the garden with Bob Ollier, Fenland District Councils parks and open spaces manager.Centenary Green, by Octavia Hill's Birthplace House, was awarded an Its Your Neighbourhood certificate of distinction. Peter Clayton, right, and David Crouch, left, are pictured in the garden with Bob Ollier, Fenland District Councils parks and open spaces manager. (Image: Archant)

“We had a great evening and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. And congratulations to the winners, Truro.”

Bob Ollier, Fenland District Council’s parks and open spaces manager, said: “Being selected to take part in Britain in Bloom is an accolade in itself. It’s a wonderful chance to show off to the rest of the UK what Wisbech is and what it offers.”

Mrs Stocks says, after speaking to the judges, she is confident gold will be within their grasp next year.

She said: “We met the judges this morning and there were many things they were very positive about – there were lots of good things they really liked.

“They encouraged us to think we can get gold next time round if we can get nominated again by Anglia in Bloom.”