The Town of Flowers is celebrating after winning the Wales in Bloom Large Village title for the 40th time.

Usk securing a Gold award in a closely contested category and finished one point ahead of presentation hosts Talgarth and new entrants Knighton.

Founded in 1981, Usk in Bloom has more than 20 regular volunteers who work throughout the year to maintain the town’s streets, squares and green spaces.

Judges praised the group’s gradual move from traditional annual bedding plants to more sustainable, drought-resilient schemes, while retaining Usk’s vibrant visual appeal, particularly in Twyn Square.

This approach is also evident in the sustainable planting opposite Usk School, which combines resilient plants with measures to support biodiversity and reduce watering and maintenance. Children from Usk Primary School have supported the work, developing an appreciation of gardening, nature and caring for the local environment.

Another highlight was the 60-metre no-dig vibrant wildflower meadow in the churchyard of St Mary’s Church, combining floral interest with benefits for wildlife and biodiversity.

The award follows a long, hot summer that made maintaining displays particularly challenging. Volunteers worked with community partner Willows Garden Centre to sustain the planting.

Usk in Bloom chairman, County Councillor Tony Kear, said: “To win the Wales in Bloom Large Village title for the 40th time is an amazing achievement and a tribute to everyone who contributes to making Usk such a beautiful place.

“Preparing and maintaining floral displays to such a high standard through a long, hot summer has required enormous dedication. Our volunteers have shown tremendous commitment, giving their time and energy throughout the year, and they should be immensely proud of this success.

“We could not achieve this without the support of our wider community. My thanks go to Usk WI, Usk Fire and Rescue, the prison and probation service, our business community, and The Willows and Morris’s garden centres for their help and encouragement.

“We are also very grateful for the support and enthusiasm shown by the children of Usk Primary School. Their involvement helps demonstrate how caring for our environment can bring people of all ages together.

“Particular thanks must go to Usk Town Council and the Friends of Usk in Bloom, whose financial support is vital in enabling us to continue this work.

“It is especially encouraging that the judge recognised our move towards sustainable, drought-resilient planting while maintaining the colour and impact people love. The planting opposite Usk School and the wildflower meadow at St Mary’s Church are wonderful examples of how we can develop our displays while making more space for nature.”

The award reflects Usk in Bloom’s long history, willingness to adapt and the shared effort of volunteers, community groups, businesses, schools and supporters. It also highlights the importance of passing on an appreciation of nature and community responsibility to future generations.

As Usk celebrates its 40th title, volunteers are looking ahead to another year of planting, maintenance and community involvement.