Colwyn in Bloom welcomed one of Wales' most respected horticultural experts on Friday as the locality was judged in this year's Wales in Bloom competition.

For the first time, the Bay of Colwyn has entered the Coastal category, having previously enjoyed outstanding success in the Large Town class, where it has won numerous Gold awards and been recognised as one of the best floral destinations in Wales.

Conducting the judging was Jim Goodwin, Honorary President of Wales in Bloom and one of the competition's most experienced judges, who spent the day assessing not only the quality of floral displays but the overall visitor experience along the coastline.

His route stretched from Old Colwyn to Rhos-on-Sea, taking in the promenade and public spaces, where he assessed everything from planting schemes and environmental quality to seating, signage, visitor facilities, entertainment and the general welcome offered to residents and tourists.

Unlike traditional competitions, Wales in Bloom judges communities on three key themes - horticulture, environmental responsibility and community participation. High-performing entries can go on to represent Wales in the prestigious RHS Britain in Bloom finals, the UK's largest community gardening campaign.

The judging visit highlighted the huge community effort that goes into the entry each year.

The Bay of Colwyn Town Council co-ordinates the campaign, working closely with gardeners from Conwy County Borough Council, local organisations and dozens of volunteers who help keep the area looking its best throughout the year.

Ahead of Friday's visit, volunteer litter-picking groups including Old Colwyn Litter Pickers, Rhos Pickers and volunteers from Eirias Park joined forces for a clean-up of the promenade between Porth Eirias and The Toad to ensure the route was in top condition.

The judging tour also showcased the area's vibrant community life, with performances from the Rydal Penrhos Community Wind Band in Combermere Gardens, the Pound exercise group on Colwyn Bay Pier and the Harlequin Puppet Theatre. Rhos-on-Sea Rotary Club members were in attendance to offer their support. Judge Jim Goodwin also heard the story behind the popular Terry Jones sculpture from the late comedian's daughter, Sally Jones.

The Mayor of the Bay of Colwyn, Councillor Greg Wynne and long-serving Chair of the Colwyn in Bloom Committee, Ingrid Lewis welcomed Mr Goodwin at the start of the visit.

The Wales in Bloom campaign extends well beyond floral displays. Earlier this month, Colwyn in Bloom presented prizes to winners of its annual primary schools art competition, which this year challenged children to design a garden to celebrate Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday. Hundreds of entries were received from local schools, with Councillor Wynne describing judging the artwork as one of the most difficult and enjoyable tasks of his mayoral year.

Colwyn Bay has built an enviable reputation in Bloom competitions over the past quarter of a century. The town has enjoyed repeated success in Wales in Bloom since 2000, has represented Wales in RHS Britain in Bloom on numerous occasions and last year secured both Wales in Bloom Gold and a coveted RHS Britain in Bloom Gold Award, one of the highest honours available in the competition.

Results of this year's competition are expected to be announced later in the year at a special ceremony and event.

Simon from Good Morning Conwy and Coast speaks to Jim Goodwin. Click to listen.