A PENKETH Community Primary School pupil felt blooming marvellous after being named joint winner of a prestigious garden design competition.

Kerry Anne Eakins, of Birkdale Road, Penketh, scooped the 2010 David Bellamy school garden title at Southport Flower Show and dedicated the win to Private Tom Sephton, who died in Afghanistan earlier this month.

The 11-year-old said: “My legs went all funny and wobbly when I was told I’d won and I couldn’t feel my feet.

“When we did the designs I thought everyone’s was really good so I knew competition would be tough.

“I’m so happy to have won and I can’t wait to see the garden when it goes on display at the show.”

The winning design, chosen by a panel of judges, will now be built and displayed in front of more than 75,000 guests at Southport Flower Show in August.

The prize, donated by Warrington based Freemasons, also included £500 for the school’s garden which will be used to tidy up the site and be renamed ‘The Thomas Sephton Garden’ in memory of the former pupil.

Julia Stephens, Kerry’s teacher, said: “Kerry is a creative and imaginative pupil.

“She draws her inspiration from nature and wildlife and her enthusiasm and interest always shines through.

“I’m delighted she won the competition and her dedication to Private Sephton proves what an thoughtful and considerate girl she is.”

The funeral of Tom Sephton, of the 1st Battalion Mercian Regiment, took place at St Elphins last Thursday.

He was wounded during an explosion in the Helmand province.

Penketh Parish Council also observed one minute’s silence at their last meeting as a mark of respect for the 20-year-old soldier and former Great Sankey High School pupil.