The passion of volunteers in Beer to ‘excite, educate and enthuse’ has impressed Britain in Bloom judges in the village’s first foray into the competition.

Beer in Bloom was selected to represent the South West in the large village category following its success in the regional section.

Judges Darren Share and James Cordingley said their visit on Monday was a ‘terrific’ start to their tour.

Mr Share told guests, including Lord and Lady Clinton, that Beer ‘was a winner’ because of the work of the community.

He said: “What you are doing is really quite inspiring. I think it’s safe to say they have done Beer very proud. The enthusiasm has been in abundance.

“I think the highlight has been the passion from the community that we have met.”

The judges will now spend the week visiting Beer’s competition - Barwick in Elmet, Yorkshire, Dalston in Cumbria, Hillsborough, Ulster, Upton-upon-Severn and Dufftown.

Lord Clinton praised all those involved.

The visit was also a birthday to remember for Beer in Bloom’s Ursula Makepeace, who said it was an honour to be nominated for the competition.

She addded: “It’s the most exciting birthday I have ever had.

“I’m delighted about the response that we have had from the village and delighted some of the children took part. I’m just so grateful for everyone’s enthusiasm. This kind of result can only be achieved with the community. It’s never a one man or one woman job.”

The results will be revealed in October in Birmingham.