A LONG awaited gold medal came the way of Chesham of Bloom's volunteers as they were rewarded for their green fingers.

Chesham was voted winner of the Large Town category at the Thames and Chilterns in Bloom awards for the third year running at the prize giving in Henley-on-Thames on Wednesday.

A gold medal had eluded the team, with Chesham winning eight silver awards over the last nine years.

But after receiving a glowing report from Royal Horticultural Society judges - who described the work of the Chesham in Bloom volunteers as "exceptional" - top honours have finally come the town's way.

Judges gave particular praise to the team's many hours spent planting, weeding, watering and litter-picking to make the town look its best, while Chesham also scored highly for community participation.

Vince Crompton, chairman of Chesham in Bloom, said: "It’s a wonderful feeling to achieve gold for Chesham. This was due to a brilliant team spirit throughout the year.

"I’d like to appeal to everyone to consider joining our winning team; we need you so we can do even better next year."

Chesham's mayor Mohammad Fayyaz added: "Congratulations should go to everyone in Chesham for their involvement in this fantastic achievement. I would especially like to thank all those who joined us on litter picks and would like to encourage people to keep tackling litter where they live all year round."

The gold award will go on display at the Chesham in Bloom AGM, which will take place at the Town Hall tomorrow at 7.30pm.

Residents and businesses will be find out how they fared in Chesham in Bloom’s Front Garden, Containers, Schools and Blooming Business competitions. The meeting is also open to non-members of Chesham in Bloom.