For the ninth year in a row, Bury has won Gold and the Best Large Town/Small City category, while Radcliffe won Gold for the second year in a separate category.

The borough’s civic success was echoed by the many individuals, businesses and community groups who also triumphed at the awards.

Kevan and Pauline Eastham fromStainton Road, Radcliffe won Best Private Garden in the North West.

In the “It’s your Neighbourhood Awards” there were four neighbourhood groups who have worked together to improve their local environment – the Friends of Abbey Close/Melrose Gardens received a Level 4 ‘thriving’ award, as did the Friends of Stainton Lodges. Walnut Allotment Association achieved a Level 3 ‘developing’ award, as did Stock Street Residents.

Community groups and schools involved in Bury and Radcliffe in Bloom included: the Rotary Club of Radcliffe; Rotary Club of Tottington & Bury West; The Fusiliers; Bury Parish Church; Bury Soroptomists; Radcliffe Townswomen’s Guild; various ‘Friends of’ park groups; Abbeyfield Home; Guardian Angels Woodies, Bury Grammar School (Girls); and St Mary’s RC Primary School.

Huge support came from businesses including: the Mill Gate; Summerseat Garden Centre; Moorgate Kitchens; The Rock; Elton Bullitt Taxis; Microcare Systems; Superior Signs; Lancashire Fitted Bedrooms & Kitchens; Bury It Direct; the East Lancashire Railway; Metrolink; The Village Hotel; McDonald’s; the East Lancs Crematorium; Radcliffe Waste Disposal site; and Radcliffe Police.

The North West in Bloom judges were particularly complimentary of the levels of sustainable planting in Radcliffe and the cleanliness of the town centre. In Bury, the judges were really impressed with the levels of sponsorship, community involvement and the sponsored feature displays.

Bury Council is praising local residents, schools, businesses and community groups for getting behind this year’s campaign and for helping to win yet another clutch of awards.

Councillor Jane Lewis, cabinet member for leisure, tourism and culture, said: “This is another brilliant result for Bury and the community. Huge thanks must go to everyone who has done their bit to help keep our borough blooming, from our workforce to all our volunteers and residents, from community groups and schools to local businesses whose generous sponsorship is invaluable in helping to keep our town looking at its best for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”

To get involved with hands-on support for either Bury or Radcliffe in Bloom or to discuss high profile sponsorship opportunities phone 0161 253 5266 or e-mail parks.countrside@bury.gov.uk