JULIA Chard is enjoying the sweet taste of success after winning the Little Gem award in Cheshire Community Action’s Best Kept Village competition.

Julia, from Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe, won the award for her colourful RHS Welly Window display, which featured 19 pairs of old wellies overflowing with summer flowers.

The display was aimed at reflecting the recycling theme at this year’s RHS show at Tatton Park.

Knutsford Guardian:

Following the show Julia kept a number of the wellies, and donated the rest to local children’s nurseries.

“The award came completely out of the blue,” said Julia.

“I was very attached to my welly display, which made visitors to the town stop and look and put a smile on everyone’s faces.”

Julia was congratulated by Knutsford Town Council, which described her as ‘Knutsford’s first lady of sweets’.