Green fingered residents from across the District were rewarded for making their gardens more friendly for local wildlife last Thursday (28 September) as part of the ‘Gardening for Wildlife’ awards scheme.

Over 160 people attended Sevenoaks District Council’s ‘Gardening for Wildlife’ celebrations evening at Sevenoaks Community Centre, and more than 50 residents from across the District collected gold, silver, bronze or highly commended awards for their efforts.

The awards were presented by Sevenoaks District Council's Chairman Cllr Alison Cook.

The scheme, which was launched in March, was aimed at making local gardens more tempting for wildlife, and was open to individuals, community groups and schools.

Entrants' gardens were judged on how plants and shrubs were used to help wildlife such as birds, hedgehogs and butterflies as well as other factors including composting, saving water, nest boxes, feeding areas and avoiding peat products

Cllr Alison Cook, the Chairman of the Council, says: "There was a great response to this year’s ‘Gardening for Wildlife’ scheme, with more people than ever entering. This evening was an opportunity to thank everyone for their efforts and hard work in making their gardens more inviting for local wildlife.”

The evening ran from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and featured guest speakers from Kent Wildlife Trust and a presentation by the Kent and Medway Biological Records Centre.