The fight for the best Hotel Front at the ‘Wales in Bloom’ awards is always a titanic battle in Tenby, not just because the two main establishments flying the floral flag for the resort are next door neighbours but because it is a real family affair between father and sons!

This year The Atlantic Hotel along the Esplanade scooped the best Hotel Front prize with a Gold medal display narrowly pipping next door neighbours The Giltar Hotel who were also awarded Gold.

Keeping the Giltar’s floral credentials in check is Simon Rowlands, with his two sons George and Tobin tasked with the duty at the Atlantic.

Nicky Rees, of The Atlantic Hotel said: “We are delighted to win our category for Wales in Bloom, it is recognition of George and Tobin’s hard work and dedication. We are very proud of them both.”

The warm and sunny summer produced some amazing floral displays across Wales and these were celebrated at this year’s Wales in Bloom Awards Ceremony at The Welfare Hall in Ystradgynlais where gardeners and volunteers from across Wales gathered this month to receive their awards.

Class 13b for Caravans, Static or Touring, Camping and Holiday Home Sites (Over 100 Units) saw Gold for Lydstep Beach Caravan Park who clinched the top spot.

Gardeners Kevin West and Daniel Dawson said: “We are absolutely delighted to win Wales in Bloom for the first time. We love Wales in Bloom and will keep entering this great competition.”

The class for Large villages had some breath taking displays, with Usk taking the title, and Saundersfoot, Talgarth and Beaumaris upgrading to Silver Gilt awards.

Elsewhere in Pembokeshire, in the smallest category for Villages - Wolfscastle and Matthern, Mounton and Pwllmeyric struck Gold in Joint first place.

Rev Geoffery Eynon of Wolfscastle said: “We are very proud winners again. The continued effort and consistency of our volunteers is incredible.”

Special Guest, at the awards, BBC weather presenter Benazir Akhtar said: “I’ve had an incredible day with the friendliest people I have met in a lovely town.

“What an amazing event, getting everyone together to celebrate the efforts of volunteers who are inspiring. Thank you for making our country even more beautiful.”

Pics. Bob Grainger