THE sun shone, children sang and flowers were on full display to welcome the Heart of England in Bloom judges to Upton.

The two-man judging panel arrived early on Wednesday morning to inspect the town for the regional competition.

They were greeted at the Old Churchyard with song from pupils at Upton Primary School and were given flowers by the HillBillies pre-school.

Dignitaries, including the mayor Eric White, deputy mayor Mark Kerrigan and Royal British Legion representative Dennis Webb, were on hand to greet the visitors.

The judges were given a tour of the town on a Severn Area Rescue Association vehicle.

Doug Fletcher, who helped advise on the town's efforts for the competition, said he was delighted with the way the day had gone.

"They were well over the moon with Upton," said Mr Fletcher. "They were amazed how many people turned out. You couldn't have had a better day."

The regional results will be announced at Coventry Cathedral on August 29.