The coveted Rosebowl Trophy was presented to representatives from the Fife town at an awards ceremony in Musselburgh's Brunton Hall, on Wednesday 17 September. This is the first time that the town has won the Rosebowl Trophy.

In 2008, 48 cities, towns, villages, urban communities and coastal resorts entered for awards which were all assessed under four main criteria: floral displays; sustainable development and biodiversity initiatives; environmental quality; and community involvement.

Keith Jackson, Chairman of the Beautiful Scotland Advisory Group, said "I never fail to be impressed by the work done by the local authorities and communities in terms of addressing the judging criteria laid down by Beautiful Scotland, and this year was no exception. Communities are assessed not only on horticulture and their pretty baskets and containers but also on biodiversity and sustainable initiatives to conserve energy. All entrants are also expected to be involved in the protection of wildlife and their habitats and be able to demonstrate year round activity in all the judging sections."