GREEN-FINGERED residents have been honoured with awards for their hard work sprucing up their stunning gardens.

Colchester Borough Homes has announced the winners of its annual Your Garden Awards.

The competition recognises tenants who take pride in their property, going the extra mile to make their community an attractive and welcoming place for themselves and others.

Chairman of the board Dirk Paterson and Colchester Borough Homes chief executive Gareth Mitchell presented the awards to the delighted winners of five categories.

Mr Mitchell said: “These awards are a chance for us to thank tenants and leaseholders who take pride in their communities and properties.

“It’s always a pleasure to recognise the hard work, particularly during the last few months, which our tenants put in to making their outdoor spaces something special.”

Mel Westcott, of Avon Way, Colchester, won the Nature’s Friend award which celebrates gardens which are appreciated by wildlife.

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Kevin Serafin and Joan Cranfield won The Good Life award, for growing their own fruit and vegetables in the back garden of their home in Barn Hall.

The Small but Perfectly Formed award for best small garden went to Barry Howes, whose Tony Webb Close outside space stunned judges.

Rowhedge residents Paul Bowman and Maureen Leshone, of Rectory Road, won the Grand Botanical gong for best large garden.

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And Neil and Donna Kadlec, of Trinity Square, won the Cultivated Containers and Pretty Pots award for the best collection of window boxes, containers or pots.

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Mr Paterson added: “Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all of our tenants who go the extra mile to look after their homes and gardens.

“The Your Garden Awards are a wonderful way for Colchester Borough Homes to show our appreciation to residents who make their communities look their best.”