DESPITE Studley in Bloom receiving its first ever silver award for its flower displays, its chairman has lashed out at councillors.

Justin Sayers has accused councillors of being unwilling to join in and of not appreciating what the group stands for.

Mr Sayers said: "We are of course delighted with the award but feel too many of those who hold themselves out as leaders of our community appear unwilling to join in as volunteers."

"Previously Studley Parish Council contributed £500 to the In Bloom effort but this was not forthcoming this year.

"Studley in Bloom is much appreciated by the people of Studley but it would appear not by some of our councillors."

Dorothy Mitchell, of Studley Parish Council, said: "We have supported Studley in Bloom since the start a number of years ago.

"The reason that they have not received the grant this year is that we only had our Grants Committee meeting on September 4.

"We will be issuing cheques after our parish council meeting on September 18 to a number of local organisations and Studley in Bloom will be included.

"We are disappointed the chairman of Studley in Bloom did not contact us personally as we could have advised on the situation."

She added: "Concerning his comments about the councillors, they take a great pride in the village and many go on the monthly litter pick organised by Action Studley group. This goes on throughout the year."