KNUTSFORD in Bloom is riding high after the town retained its RHS ‘Gold’ medal for a second year.

The team of volunteers helped bring a special splash of colour to Knutsford this summer, winning the top North West in Bloom accolade to follow up last year’s inaugural Gold win.

Businesses and shops in the town were also recognised for their efforts, with the town winning the North West in Bloom Trophy for best commercial effort.

As well as the competition awards, there was recognition for residents in the ‘In Your Neighbourhood’ category, with Jean Vann’s Sparrow Lane plot hailed ‘Outstanding’.

Samantha Howard and Rowena Acton also received 'Outstanding level 5' for their efforts in Shaw Heath and Longridge.

The awards were presented in Southport last week, after judges had visited in the week following the RHS Tatton flower show.

Yvonne Bancroft, Knutsford in Bloom chairman, said: “It’s great – you can’t get any higher.

“The Gold award is not just about flower displays, but also the community doing things together. Knutsford has so many voluntary organisations and all these things do contribute.

“I was hopeful, because the judges made noises that they were really pleased – they don’t give much away but they were extremely impressed with the displays across town.

“They adored Jean’s display. It’s a beacon in the middle of all the great plots in Sparrow Lane, and while they are all lovely, Jean’s is the Kew Gardens of allotments.”

Planning work has already started for next year’s display, although the Knutsford in Bloom team is taking nothing for granted.

Yvonne said: “It’s all about involving as many people as possible and improving areas. There are always things we are looking at.”

Since Knutsford in Bloom was formed in 2009, the town has been recognised each year for its efforts by RHS North West in Bloom.

Having won the ‘Silver Gilt’ medal for best town each year between 2010 and 2015, Knutsford finally scooped Gold last year before doubling the tally in 2017.

The best commercial effort award is also a regular visitor to the town, won in 2010, 2012 and 2015 as well as this year.

Cllr James Power, deputy chairman of Knutsford Town Council’s environment committee and a member of Knutsford in Bloom, sang the praises of the group who give their time to brighten up the town.

Cllr Power said of the ‘best town’ award: “Knutsford is the greatest town on earth in my view.

“It is blooming marvellous that we have been awarded Gold by the judges.

“A massive thank you must go to all the dedicated volunteers.”

Visit knutsfordinbloom.co.uk to find out more about the group’s work throughout the year.