A COMPETITION recognising the very best kept villages in Wiltshire has given two awards to a village near Salisbury.

Swallowcliffe, found on the A30 west of Salisbury, was crowned the Best Newcomer and Best Small Village by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) at a presentation on September 21.

The CPRE Best Kept Village competition doesn’t seek to find the prettiest villages in the county, but rather the villages that are best cared for by its residents.

The competition whittles down villages within the four districts of Wiltshire in each of the three sizes- small (population under 300), medium (population of 300 to 1,000) and large (population 1,000 to 3,500) before a second round is held where the winners are pitted against one another to determine the three best kept villages.

Judges look out for the state of roadside hedges and walls, residential gardens, public areas and buildings, footpaths, churchyards, external areas around schools and churches, notice boards, litter and also an indication of community spirit.

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All Cannings near Devizes was judged to be the Best Kept Medium Village, while Seend near Melksham was found to be the Best Kept Large Village. The ‘Winners of Winners’ award was given to Urchfont.

Winning villages proudly display an eight-foot standard with shield for a year.

This year marks the first time Swallowcliffe has won the award, and residents were joined by Amanda Brockley from the parish council, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire Dame Sarah Troughton, chairman of Wiltshire Council councillor Laura Mayes, Paul Ashman of idverde and Salisbury MP John Glen to watch the presentation and see the standard unveiled.

The CPRE certificate was presented by the High Sheriff of Wiltshire Martin Nye and Anne Henshaw presented the Best Newcomer Certificate.

A CPRE spokesperson said: “Swallowcliffe only has about 200 residents, but what it lacks in population is made up for in community spirit!

“There was a huge turnout and Amanda Brockley from the parish council thanked everyone for turning up at the presentation and for their hard work and commitment over the last year.”

Swallowcliffe Parish Council said: “The residents of Swallowcliffe are delighted that the village has achieved a remarkable double win in this year’s Best Kept Village Awards.”

It added: “Swallowcliffe’s double triumph is a testament to the pride its residents take in their village and to the collaborative spirit that continues to make it one of Wiltshire’s hidden gems.

“This recognition reflects the unique character, charm, and strong community spirit that make Swallowcliffe such a special place to live.

“The judges praised the village for its well-kept appearance and the dedication of residents who work tirelessly to preserve its beauty and heritage.”

Cllr Martin Smith, cabinet member for highways, said: “Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s Best Kept Village competition, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part.

“The dedication and pride each of you takes in your local community is truly inspiring. If you’re still looking for ways to make a positive impact locally, we’re here to support you.

“Whether it’s organising a litter pick, sweeping paths, or taking on other small but meaningful tasks, every effort helps keep your local community looking its best.”

Visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/litter to learn how to get involved.