SIDMOUTH'S horticultural exploits came under the microscope last Thursday as judges from South West in Bloom came to town. With the sun shining, the judges were able to see the town in all its glory. They were escorted by Sidmouth in Bloom officials aroun

SIDMOUTH'S horticultural exploits came under the microscope last Thursday as judges from South West in Bloom came to town.With the sun shining, the judges were able to see the town in all its glory. They were escorted by Sidmouth in Bloom officials around various sites of floral merit, culminating in a light tea in Connaught Gardens.Royal Horticultural Society Judge John Bawden said: "We've been very pleased with what we've seen, a lot of nice people with a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of nice flowers, its very colourful." The judging marked the end of months of hard work from Sidmouth in Bloom committee members and townsfolk. Tony Cox, Chairman of Sidmouth Town Council, said: "You can sense the effort and determination that has been put into this and that we are doing the best for our community and visitors here. If the judges left believing at least that then we have succeeded."Sidmouth in Bloom president Joy Seward said: "A tremendous amount of hard work has gone into this to show off parts of Sidmouth people might not have realised were there. It was quite exhausting and a mad rush but I know we did our best."Residents along the route expressed the importance of the competition to them as judges saw the fruits of their labours.Eve Watson, 87, of Russell Street, said: "It's very important for us here in our little street and for our strong street community. We all get together and chat while we're watering." Bill Bailey, 80, of Fortfield Terrace said: "I like to think the people of Sidmouth have pulled together. Sidmouth is unique, it's England personified."The judging results will be announced in Plymouth on September 18. Sidmouth in Bloom completed its own judging of the town on Monday.