Luss by Loch Lomond, renowned for generations as one of Scotland’s prettiest spots, has been ablaze with colour this summer, with well-tended gardens and hanging baskets framing it’s famously historic cottages.

And in recognition of the outstanding efforts by so many within the small village, a new competition was launched to capture the best garden display.

Last week, sponsor Lady Colquhoun of Luss announced the winners. And the winners of the competition will be as well-kent as the display.

Winners Norrie Gardner and his wife live at Tigh-A-Mhaoir on Pier Road opposite Luss General Store – dating back to the 1740s, Tigh-A-Mhaoir is one of Luss’ most photographed cottages.

That’s especially true since the Gardners – by name and by trade it seems – moved in more than 20 years ago and started work on both the garden and the hanging baskets.

The competition was judged by experienced gardeners, Susan Miller, Jackie Theaker of Luss Estates, and Lady Colquhoun.

The silver engraved winners cup and vouchers were donated by Waitrose and plants donated by Homebase.

Lady Colquhoun said: “The winners make an invaluable contribution to the beauty and charm of Luss, something which is greatly appreciated by residents and visitors alike, and so this competition is a small way for us all to recognise the hard work, skill and dedication which goes into creating these lovely gardens.” In recent years Tigh-A-Mhaoir has featured in calendars sent out worldwide, with tourists regularly stopping to be pictured in front of the south-facing cottage.

 “When we moved in, I inherited a garden that had been left to grow wild,” said 60-year-old Norrie.

The joiner to trade added: “Our neighbour George taught me all the basics and helped me start to create the garden we now enjoy, and each year we change the display of the flowers in our baskets and containers. Ours is just one of many beautiful displays here, and there are some great vegetable and fruit growers too.”