DOZENS of Stourport people had a "bloomin" good time after joining visitors from their twin town for a garden re-opening. Jean Dupuis and Stourport mayor Reg Knott cut the ribbon to open the

new-look Villeneuve-le-Roi Gardens.

Stourport mayor Reg Knott officially unveiled the new-look Villeneuve-le-Roi Gardens with the help of Jean Dupuis, head of the visiting French party made up of members of the conservatoire choir and orchestra.

Mr Dupuis, president of the Stourport-Villeneuve-le-Roi Twinning Committee, and 60 fellow visitors watched the launch of the refurbished gardens in Lion Hill.

New benches, baskets, plants and slabs have been put in place with the help of several Stourport groups, including the town council, business association and town centre management forum.

Mr Knott said: "A lot of hard work has given the gardens a real bright and new look and everybody is delighted with the outcome.

"It was great to see people come out to meet their French counterparts."

After Saturday's outdoor excursion, the French took part in a concert at Kidderminster Town Hall the following evening when they joined Stourport Choral Society for a performance of Faure's Requiem.