Three Wirral community groups have received Britain in Bloom honours for their excellent commitment to clean up their neighbourhoods.

Supported by Magenta Living, the tenants of Ilchester Road, Bidston Rise and Jamesbook Close joined forces to spruce up the Bidston area through gardening.

Ilchester Road and Bidston Rise were awarded the Level 3 for advancing neighbourhoods and Jamesbrook Close received Level 4 status for a thriving neighbourhood award.

Environmental services manager at Magenta Living, Maureen Davies, said: “The key themes that Britain in Bloom is marked on are; horticultural excellence, environmental friendliness and community involvement – and our groups delivered just that, we’re so proud of the dedication and hard work demonstrated by the tenants involved.”

The awards were a bittersweet occasion after the death of an active member of Bidston Rise community group, mum of three Rachel Drinkwater.

Chairman of Bidston Rise and the Tenants and Residents Association, Jean McIntosh said: “We are over the moon to be given this accolade.

“It’s a mix of emotions for us because we are still mourning the loss of Rachel Drinkwater, a young mum of three who passed away suddenly and was a huge part of the Bidston Rise community.

“Rachel would be proud to be a RHS winner, she will always be remembered.”