TWO Bridgwater & Taunton College students have made it to the next round of a prestigious floral competition.

Laura Williams and Amy Shakeshaft competed in the South West regional heat of the RHS Chelsea Florist of the Year competition held at the college's Cannington campus.

The pair were against 18 other florists.

The competition will be held at the Chelsea Flower Show in May, where only 16 finalists have been selected to compete.

For the regional heat, the brief was to design and make a floral stole for a bridge to wear at a winter wedding in a Scottish castle.

Somerset County Gazette:

Amy Shakeshaft with her entry. 

Miss Shakeshaft said: "I am in shock. This was my first ever Chelsea heat and to be into the finals I am overwhelmed with excitement and pride, plus plenty of nerves, but am looking forward to the journey."

Miss Williams is no stranger to competing at high level competitions, as she was one of only eight finalists in the WorldSkillsUK finals at the NEC in November 2017.

Miss Williams added: “It’s been a lot of hard work and dedication both personally and financially, but what a journey. I’ve pushed myself to the limit and it has all finally paid off.

"I would recommend any students studying floristry to get involved in competitions as you learn so much from everyone, even if you don’t place.

"I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead.”