Newport has won the Wales in Bloom title for the fifth time and the third year in succession.

Usk has also won its class in the Wales in Bloom contest.

The beautiful town is no stranger to Wales in Bloom success - this is its 18th successive victory. Abergavenny came second in the large town category

Usk mayor John Spenceley said: "I'm over the moon, delighted. I hope that we can repeat our success at Britain in Bloom so we can represent Wales again."

Newport won in 1995, 1996, 1999 and 2000, and its gorgeous displays of flowers in public places and private gardens have once again impressed the national competition judges for it to win the city category.

The same displays were also viewed by Britain in Bloom judges - a competition Newport entered automatically because of its Wales in Bloom success.

Its success has been put down to the variety and colour of its public displays and the enthusiasm and expertise with which individual residents, schools, pubs and others create theirs.

The win for Newport will enhance its prospects in the battle for city status, which begins in earnest this weekend with a promotional extravaganza in John Frost Square and Rodney Parade.

Businessman Ben Hoppe, chairman of the town's city status campaign, said Newport's win augured well for the city bid.

"Newport has looked splendid over the past few months and thanks should go to everyone who has been involved." he said . Britain in Bloom results are eagerly awaited, with both Newport entered and the Bettws area entered separately in the urban community class.

As a result of triumphing in Wales in Bloom again, Britain in Bloom will beckon next year as well.

Our picture shows, from left, Newport council press officer Emma Mackaness, environmental services head Tom Chaloner and grounds technician Claire Llewellyn.