RESIDENTS' planting and pruning skills came under scrutiny as Walthamstow was judged as part of a gardening competition.

Walthamstow Village in Bloom is hoping to repeat the success it had last year by scooping an award from London in Bloom.

For the past few weeks it’s been all hands on deck in Walthamstow Village as the group prepared for a visit from judges, Peter Holman and Pauline McCormack on Friday.

The two representatives from London in Bloom were greeted at Vestry House Museum and treated to a two-hour tour of the area.

Despite recent drought-conditions Walthamstow Village was looking good for the inspection.

Helen Lerner, chairwoman of the In Bloom team, said: “We use drought-tolerant, perennial planting in all our raised beds and these are mulched which helps to retain water.

"Even so, a week ago the plants were showing signs of severe distress and we decided to water each bed just once.

"We have asked residents to save their “grey” water from baths and washing-up to use on the beds and tree-pits.

"I would like to thank our wonderful volunteers and committee who have worked so hard and all the residents, friends and businesses who have supported Walthamstow Village in Bloom and the Front Garden and Premises Challenges.”

Mrs Lerner, 46, said the area won a prestigious silver–gilt award last year in the London’s Best Urban Community category and the hope is to get at least the same again.

The area is also a finalist in the national RHS Britain in Bloom competition and judges, Sue Wood and Jim Knight, will visit on Wednesday, August 4.

The aim of the volunteer group is to help create beautiful streets and this is done through regular litter picks, planting schemes and keeping individual gardens looking their best.

Mrs Lerner, of Beulah Road, said she would like to thank Teresa Deacon and Graham Sherman for their help welcoming the judges last week.

She said the results of both competitions would not be known until September.