Things are looking rosy for three areas in Dudley borough after they won recognition in the Heart of England In Bloom Awards.

The awards recognise the quality of an area’s local environment, particularly through the imaginative planting of trees, shrubs, flowers, conservation and recycling projects.

Stourbridge has been awarded gold, an upgrade on last year’s silver gilt award, while Halesowen has received the gold award for the second year in a row. On the area’s first submission to the awards, Wall Heath has received a silver gilt honour, which is the second-highest prize on offer.

Councillor Damian Corfield, cabinet member for highways and environmental services, said: “Winning recognition for three areas in the borough in these awards is a brilliant achievement and it’s testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and volunteers.

"They have given up so much of their time to make their communities a brighter and happier place and everyone involved should be proud of their efforts."