A GARDENER who has kept his allotment in pristine condition has won a prize from the parish council.

Richard Paige was awarded the annual Michael Hunter Allotment Shield by Sunninghill & Ascot Parish Council for the best kept allotment.

Mr Paige wowed the judges with his towering sunflowers, neatly trimmed hedges and flourishing vegetables.

The chairman of the Parish Council, Cllr Mrs Allison Sharpe said: "The Michael Hunter Allotment Shield is awarded annually to the gardener of the best kept allotment. The Parish Council invites a professional judge, who marks against a strict criteria. Richard Paige was the deserving winner this year and it was a delight to present him with the Shield and a prize of garden vouchers.

"Mike Moody was the worthy runner up and John and Debby Cross’s plot was noted as ‘most improved’.

"The Council has a total of 15 allotments in Cheapside and our Clerk will take applications from any local individual who wishes to apply."