Two Beautiful Scotland judges toured Aberdeen yesterday to inspect the city’s parks and green spaces.
The city, which is being judged on efforts to improve green spaces including work carried out by council staff and local communities, is hosting the 50th awards ceremony this year.
Beautiful Scotland recognises the efforts of local authorities and communities which work to improve their local cities, towns and villages.
Judges Stan da Plato and Andrew Hogarth were taken around Duthie Park Winter Gardens, Seaton Park, Hazlehead Park, and community groups in Cove, Dyce, and Peterculter.
They examined themes of horticultural achievement, community participation and environmental responsibility.
The prestigious Rosebowl Trophy and other awards will be presented at a ceremony in the city on September 14.
Some winners will also represent Scotland in the RHS Britain in Bloom final in 2017, whose judges visit the city on Friday.
Councillor Jean Morrison, vice-convener of the infrastructure, communities and housing committee, said: “The flowers and plants around the city are looking particularly beautiful this year and we’re really proud of all the hard work and effort put in by not only our grounds staff, but also the community groups and partners.”
Mr da Plato said: “Scotland in Bloom has been going for 50 years and Aberdeen is the only local authority which has entered every single year.
“We’ve been very impressed with the quality of not only the traditional displays but also the new working with neighbourhood groups.”
The judges are visiting cities, towns, villages and communities around Scotland over 12 days to inspect the work on offer.