Beer in Bloom is preparing to go toe-to-toe with the best in the country this summer when national judges visit in August.

The village will battle it out to be named the best large village in the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Britain in Bloom competition.

The group will compete against Barwick in Elmet, Yorkshire, Dalston in Cumbria, Hillsborough, Ulster, Upton on Severn and Dufftown.

Ursula Makepeace, of Beer in Bloom, said: “It means a great deal of satisfaction - all the group’s efforts have been officially recognised, not only by South West in Bloom, but by the Royal Horticultural Society.”

Beer in Bloom was named as one of 72 UK finalists after impressing judges with its outstanding commitment to environmental responsibility, community participation and gardening achievement.

Ursula added: “It makes a place so much nicer. I have had comments from people that said they kept coming back to Beer because it was such a happy place. We are very grateful for the financial support that we get from businesses and private people in the village.”

Volunteers will give RHS judges a tour of the village, its local projects and initiatives in the hope of scooping a gold award at the annual awards ceremony in October.

The group will also hope to replicate its success in South West in Bloom competition when judges visit in July.

Andrea Van Sittart, RHS head of community outreach, said: “It’s a tremendous achievement and illustrates the groups’ impressive commitment to improving their local environment.

“Volunteers of all ages and all walks of life participate in Bloom, making extraordinary efforts to improve streets and neighbourhoods in towns, villages and cities across Britain.

“It is vital we celebrate and recognise their efforts to strengthen their communities and inspire others to get involved.”