A DAZZLING display met judges of the Magna West Somerset 2002 Garden Competition last week.

A solar fountain and a row of Wellington boots, cut down and planted out with trailing flowers, were just some of the features that secured top prize in the small garden category for Tim Chilcott, of Minehead.

In second place was nearby Diane Smithies' calming gravel fronted garden created shortly after the death of her mother and featuring bench seating, a pond, bamboo and buddhas.

"It was such a sad time, and I wanted to give the garden a total change. It is a soothing area," said Mrs Smithies.

Third in this category was Ian Brown, whose garden contained a Jubilee picture of the Queen and a wooden barrow filled with bedding plants. Both were made by Ian's sons and were on display alongside fruit, flowers, herbs and hanging baskets.

Previous winner Clarence Bushen, of Luttrell Gardens, pictured, scored again by taking first prize in the patios and containers category with 20 hanging baskets and a Golden Jubilee display.

David Chidgey, of Stogursey, came second for his hanging baskets and packed but tidy planting, and Mrs T Harris, of Watchet, came third.

Winner of the large garden category, Lionel Nicholas, impressed judges with his series of 'garden rooms', slate waterfall and a viewing tower that looks across to the sea.

Second in this category was Chris Hayes garden in Crowcombe with its unusual plants from across the world.

Judges commented on the structural work in a number of the gardens, with decking, arches and pergolas, as well as more water features, some solar powered, and the use of recycled materials to create planters and tubs. Wildlife was also being encouraged with plenty of bird baths, nesting boxes and shrubs with berries.

Many gardeners were saving rainwater to water their plants and some had compost bins.

Horticulturists Gwen and Brian Wills, from Dorchester, said they see something different each time they judge: "There was a really high standard of entries and we were really impressed at the energy saving, environmentally friendly features incorporated into some of the gardens."

Brian added: "We had a very good day's judging, despite the showers. Everyone who tends a garden puts in time and effort, but the results are so worthwhile, not just for the owner, but for anyone who passes by."

RESULTS

(In 1, 2, 3 order)

Large garden, L Nicholas, C Hayes. Small, T Chilcott, Mrs D Smithies, I Brown. Very highly commended, Mrs Fulke-Greville; highly commended Mrs Newton, Mrs Rexworthy; commended R France. Patios and containers, C Bushen, D Chidgey, Mrs T Harris.