Britain In Bloom judges have voted Brighton and Hove the second best large coastal resort in Britain.

The city took the silver-gilt award at a ceremony in Aberdeen just days after winning best large city in the South-East.

It was narrowly beaten by Southport in Merseyside.

The 61 areas competing in Britain in Bloom 2002 had the country's finest examples of floral displays, recycling projects and anti-litter schemes.

Horsham was also highly rated in what was billed as the largest horticultural competition in Europe. It came third in the best large town category, behind winners Perth, Scotland.

The city was also commended for its efforts to promote tourism at yesterday's ceremony.

Bob Sweet, chairman of the judges, said: "We have been especially encouraged by the standards achieved in the coastal category, introduced to the campaign for the first time this year."

Councillor Heather James, deputy chair of the council's environment committee, said: "The campaign is a wonderful example of everyone pulling together to improve the city for those who live, visit and work."

The competition was organised by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Britain in Bloom judges visited the city during the summer, taking a tour of shopping centres, industrial estates, residential areas, allotments and the surrounding countryside.