MARVELLOUS BLOOMS IN DROUGHT YEAR

Environment Hailsham chairwoman Mary Rowe was delighted gardeners had overcome a cold spring and dry summer to do the town proud with outdoor displays.

Mary told the Express: 'It's not been an easy year but I'm delighted to say most of the gardens, tubs and hanging baskets are still there and looking wonderful.

'They certainly make our town a more attractive place to live in.'

Top of the residential front gardens awards come Brenda and George Skinner of Chapel Barn Close.

It's the couple's second win in the competition.

Second, third and fourth came gardens in Cameron Close, Falcon Way and Beuzeville Avenue.

The Nodding Cobbler Cup was won outright by the Highcroft Veterinary Group in London Road where Mary says a truly magnificent row of hanging baskets have just been taken down.

Second and third in this category were Mill Lodge in Mill Road and Luke Lade Court.

The Corn Exchange topped the town pubs and licensed restaurants category to win the Hailsham Lions Cup with the Bricklayers Arms and Prezzo coming second and third.

Out of town the White Hart, Horsebridge won the John Kent Cup with the Berwick Inn and The Gun coming second and third.

Highly commended were the Yew Tree, Arlington; The Merrie Harriers at Cowbeech and the Golden Cross pubs.