Rustington is going for gold

And the big impression the village made on the judges could help Rustington to repeat its successes in last year’s competition, including a gold award in the Inter-Regional Champion of Champions.

Last week had judges hailing Rustington’s “bright future” and praising it as “one of the south’s strongest contenders”.

The judges were shown around the village’s colourful floral displays, and were given the opportunity to see various community groups in action.

Judges were also impressed by a group of green-fingered youngsters from Rustington’s Georgian Gardens Primary School.

Pupils from the school, in Guildford Road, helped to do their bit for the village’s In Bloom judging day by putting on a spectacular display of floral, fruity treats as part of the competition’s Blooming Schools section.

Georgian Gardens’ head teacher, Bill Molloy, said: “The judges said the gold medal was well deserved.

“They were amazed at the knowledge the children had, particularly about all the fruits, vegetables and potatoes.

“It was a privilege to be involved in the village’s bid.”

Judge, Chris Evans, praised all the work Rustington’s In Bloom committee and parish council had put into their bid.

He said: “I think In Bloom is about people coming together to make the environment a better place to live and Rustington has hit all the right marks.”

Mick Gore, the second judge during the day, added: “We were astounded by Rustington.

“The thing that impressed us was the enthusiasm and support from all the village.

“The knowledge of the children, too, was brilliant.”

Parish council chairman, Andy Cooper, said: “The judges were very impressed with the overall horticultural display around the village and were equally impressed with the superb standard of both community involvement and projects they had been shown.

“A special thanks must go to the In Bloom committee for their hard work and Ferring Nurseries.

“Rustington would not look half as good without the dedication and unfaltering hard work and commitment to the village.”

Results from the judging are due out next month.