GREEN-FINGERED Stourbridge students with disabilities picked up an award for helping the town to blossom ahead of this year's In Bloom campaign.

The students, who are aged between 16 and 24 and have conditions such as autism, dyslexia and blindness, have been tidying the churchyard around St John's Church, off the ring road, as part of their entry level horticulture course at Stourbridge College.

And at an awards bash at Waitrose, they were presented with certificates for their efforts to breathe new life into the overgrown garden surrounding the landmark church.

Their teacher Rose Golding, foundation level tutor at Stourbridge College, said: "They were absolutely thrilled. I was so proud of them."

A host of other Stourbridge volunteers, community groups and businesses, including the News Group, were also commended for their efforts in helping the town to win yet another gold award in the Heart of England in Bloom campaign.

Stourbridge in Bloom co-ordinator David Harcourt said: "The awards acknowledge of all the excellent work that has been undertaken by groups and individuals that have contributed to a magnificent seventh gold award."