Colne has been praised for its community spirit, colourful nature, and clean and tidy surroundings by judges.
Last month, we reported how Colne had once again scooped gold at the North West In Bloom awards - picking up the Lord Mayor of Chester’s Millennium Trophy for the fifth time.
Now, we can reveal why it was chosen as the cream of the best large town crop, after being given access to the judges’ report.
Brendan Cook and Peter Wiseman visited the award-winning town back in July, telling the Colne Times they were “very very impressed by the floral displays”.
Now following their trip they have added “there was no sign that Colne in Bloom is resting on its laurels as new initiatives and improvements were evident”.
They said: “The enthusiasm for Colne in Bloom seems to have permeated the whole community. Wherever we went we were met by great keenness by numerous volunteer groups and individuals to show what they had achieved. This was also well supported by the local authority.
“Community participation in Colne is excellent, representing all ages, and is a shining example of what can be achieved in the ten years that Colne have been active participants.
“The hard-working example set by the initial volunteers has proved the catalyst for the involvement of business and the wider public. Albert Road and the town centre are a picture.
“All the initiatives are sustainable and the ongoing funding and support will ensure that the quality of Colne’s environment will be maintained in the future.”
Praise was given to a “tidy pleasantly planted piece of land at Burnley Road”, and to the Alkincoats Allotments.
The Wallace Hartley Garden was said to have interesting potential, and Colne’s heritage was said to be “well preserved”.
Other areas of achievement included Ball Grove Park’s offerings and community participation.
Areas of improvement included beds and the wildflower meadow at Alkincoats Park, and the potential to provide a colourful and interesting display at large containers at the Millennium Green.
It was also said the “pick your own herb bed” in the town precinct is a good feature but needs to be replenished regularly to maintain its appeal.
Other successes at this year’s North West In Bloom awards included silver gilt gongs for Trawden and Laneshaw Bridge.