JEAN Kingdom blew away Fareham in Bloom judges with her breathtaking flowers.

But for green-fingered Jean, cultivating a stunning floral display in her front garden was more than just a hobby - it was her "saviour".

Having battled through the last 18 months while her husband suffered from severe hip trouble, creating a magnificent profusion of colour in Queens Crescent was a way for Jean to relax and unwind.

Now it has seen her scoop the highest competition accolade in this year's Fareham in Bloom.

As well as netting the gold award for her category, Jean, 65, who is married to Brian, 69, was shocked when she was also announced winner of the Outstanding Horticul-tural Excellence Award at a special presentation.

She said: "I was so surprised, it was lovely. I have always put a lot of effort into my garden. I just love it.

"But this year my garden has been my saviour and allowed me time to come out and think while we were going through some hard times."

She added: "A lot of people have commented on it and stop and chat about gardening with me. I have done quite well in the competition in the past but my garden has meant even more to me this year."

Horticultural development officer for the council, Matt Wakefield, said: "Jean's level of expertise and attention to detail is second to none.

"She has been dedicated to this competition for years and that is why she was deserving of the top award."

Jean will sit on the Fareham In Bloom committee for next year's competition.