NEWQUAY was showed off in all its glory on Thursday towards its quest for a record consecutive 16th gold in the South West in Bloom Awards.

Judges Ian Cawley and Lesley Jellyman from Devon were given a tour on the land train to mark the town’s horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community participation.

The tour started at Hendra Holiday Park and visited Nansledan for the first time where the judges spoke to Peter James, the project manager for the Duchy of Cornwall.

They also visited the Gannel where they met Ian Boreham from Newquay Marine Group to hear about the estuary’s marine life. The next stop on the tour was a visit to the Huer’s Hut where the judges spoke to custodian Jon Goodman about the landmark’s history.

(L-R) Judges Lesley Jellyman and Ian Cawley looking at the blooms in Trenance Gardens (Picture: Warren Wilkins) ( )

Deputy mayor Sarah Thomson showcased the Living Library Garden before the tour ended at Trenance Gardens. Oll an Gwella performed a variety of songs outside Trenance Cottages and the judges also got to speak to students from Newquay Orchard who were working in the garden.

Oll an Gwella performing at Trenance Cottages (Picture: Warren Wilkins) ( )

Mr Crawley said: “I must have walked around with my eyes closed during the tour last year because everything looks so different. Lots of things have come on really well. It’s been a nice tour. It has been put together really well.

“Starting the tour at Hendra Holiday Park is great as it sets the tone for the day. Trenance Gardens is a great way to finish. It is a really great managed council garden and then you also have the relaxed feel of the cottages.”

The judges speaking to students from Newquay Orchard (Picture: Warren Wilkins) ( )

The judges were accompanied on the tour by members of Newquay in Bloom and Mayor Drew Creek.

Lesley Friel from Newquay in Bloom said: “The tour has been fun.

“The day started off foggy but the weather improved. Getting around on the land train was brilliant and Oll an Gwella were fantastic.

“Their performance was the cherry on the cake and a wonderful finale.

“I think the judges enjoyed the tour and they asked lots of questions. We thought everywhere we went Newquay was looking its best.

“We in the Bloom team are so grateful that Newquay Town Council facilitated us to use the land train with Mark Haddrell and Harry Haddrell again this year.

“South West in Bloom judging gives us the chance to highlight the brilliant community we have here in Newquay along with the wonderful horticulture and environment but this would not be possible without the support of Newquay Town Council and the environment team, Newquay BID, Cormac, Biffa, our own Bloom Team and many other groups and residents who have assisted to ensure that the town looks its best on judging day.”

People flocked to enjoy Oll an Gwella's performance (Picture: Warren Wilkins) ( )

Mayor Drew Creek said: “The tour has gone well.

“It is always a pleasure to have South West in Bloom judges come to Newquay.

“Newquay is aiming for its 16th consecutive gold, and the town is looking great.

“I would like to thank the operators of the land train for hosting the judges on the tour and Newquay in Bloom for all the work they do around the town. Fingers crossed we get that 16th gold.”

Chris Wasley from Cormac, who helps grow, plant and maintain the flowers and plants at Trenance Gardens, said: “I think there has been a lot more colour that has come through this year.

“Our volunteers have dedicated so much time to it, and they have done an amazing job.”