COMMUNITIES in Wharfedale, Aireborough and Horsforth are celebrating ‘blooming’ marvellous Yorkshire in Bloom results.

Bramhope and Horsforth both secured Golds, in the Urban Community and Town sections respectively, of this year’s competition.

There was also a Silver Gilt for Otley and a Silver for Rawdon, while Golden Acre picked up a Platinum rating in the Parks, Gardens, Cemeteries and Public Buildings category.

In their notes on Bramhope, the judges said: “The new landlord and his son at the Fox and Hounds have embraced the in Bloom concept with a wonderful display in the managers and hanging baskets at the front.

“Throughout Bramhope very careful thought is given to choice of plants and shrubs to ensure that they are in the right location and environment.

“This is especially evident in the newly planted bed adjacent to the Parade and the six themed beds there.”

Janet Hobson from Bramhope in Bloom said: “We were awarded Gold again!

“I personally would like to congratulate all members of our group and to say that all their hard work has once again been worthwhile.

“I have to say, however, that our main aim is to make Bramhope an even lovelier place for everyone.”

The judges were also full of praise for Horsforth in Bloom for rising to the challenge of ‘exceptionally dry’ conditions.

They said: “Stand-outs were the superb herbaceous beds in Hall Park, which is a credit to Sue of the city council and the volunteers who help.

“The frontage to Bartlett’s looked stunning as usual, the Methodist Church planting was in excellent condition, and Pollination Corner worked up in conjunction

with St Margaret’s School was both innovative and pleasing on the eye.”

Posting their reaction to another gold online, Horsforth in Bloom said they were delighted, adding: “Thanks must go primarily to our team as well as our sponsoring businesses, the staff at Hall park, and Horsforth Town Council for their support.”

Otley in Bloom were pleased with their Silver Gilt, too.

Chair Katie Burnett said: “The team are delighted with the result as the weather was really against us, what with snow in March and then an unprecedented heat wave.

“Thank you to everyone who has helped us this year, in particular our volunteers, Neil Wilson and his LCC Parks team, Otley BID and Prince Henry’s Year 10s, who helped so much with the planting.”

Otley Town Council Chair Councillor Ray Georgeson added: “Many congratulations again to Otley in Bloom for another excellent showing, despite the dry and challenging weather conditions.

“The town really appreciates the tireless efforts that the volunteers put in, supported by many local businesses, residents and the town council.”

In Rawdon the judges singled out ‘the wonderful HIVE Garden at St Peter’s school’ for praise, noting that: “The children are encouraged to provide, develop

and explore the various habitats in which wildlife will thrive and careful consideration has been given to planting so that plants are in the right place for them to grow.”

They added: “The 99 white rose bushes beautifully enhance the new Memorial Stone and WW1 Commemorative benches at Littlemoor Commemorative Garden, a joint project with RiB and the Parish Council.”