A PATRIOTIC pensioner is pinning her hopes on winning yet another award for her stunning garden after a visit by Britain in Bloom judges.

Green-fingered Margaret Dudden has won countless accolades for her floral displays at Ravine Road in Southbourne, including last year’s prize for the best front garden in Bournemouth.

After beating off competition with her Olympics and Diamond Jubilee themed displays, the 73-year-old is hoping to sweep the boards again with her Union Jack themed garden and spectacular red, white and blue hanging baskets. Bournemouth is one of six finalists in the coastal category for towns with a population of more than 12,000.

Margaret, a mother-of-two and grandmother-of-three, who has already been visited by the South and South East in Bloom judges this year, said: “I am honoured to have my garden visited as part of the Britain in Bloom judges’ tour; they seemed impressed but I will have to wait for the results.

“It was so unexpected to win last year.

“I really enjoy gardening – it’s a great way to be outdoors and keep active.

“My husband Chris used to work in London and that’s how it all started, to keep myself busy. My children entered me for the competition.

“It takes a lot of time and effort; during the very dry spell I was watering for hours at a time. Before the judges arrived I was out at 6am picking up the petals which had been blown off by the wind.”

Britain in Bloom judges also visited Charminster, Linwood School and Bournemouth Gardens, taking a 25-mile tour around the town from Alum Chine to Hengistbury Head.

Chris Evans, the council’s nursery manager, said: “Mrs Dudden has done a brilliant job and it looks fantastic.

“Fingers crossed she is a winner again this year.”