ERICA Tippett of Bleujen Florist, Bude, has taken second place at the national Interflora Florist of the Year 2013 competition, representing The South West in a tense competition final held at the RHS Tatton Park Flower Show, on Friday.

Seen as the pinnacle of achievement in the industry, this year, places at this top floristry competition are particularly highly valued as Interflora marks its 90th anniversary with a calendar of special events and celebrations.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the 'Post'.