JUDGES had a bloomin’ marvellous time being shown round Colchester.

Top bods from Britain in Bloom descended on the town to pass judgement on its displays.

Dave Harris, secretary for Colchester in Bloom, said: “They were really impressed.

“We took them round Castle Park, which is of course the jewel in our crown."

Hanging baskets have been strung from lamposts, Castle Park pruned and businesses encouraged to decorate their shops with flower power over the past few weeks.

The Colchester in Bloom team will have to wait until September to know if they have clinched a title when they will go to Cleethorpes for the announcements.

Mr Harris said: “I’m very hopeful but even if we get a lowly award for me the real prize is the fact we have done something good for our town.”