Villagers in Hopton are celebrating success in Britain in Bloom.

The Hopton in Bloom committee’s efforts in turning the village into a riot of colour were honoured in Yorkshire in Bloom, resulting in an invitation to compete nationally.

Hopton achieved a silver gilt in the village category of Britain in Bloom and chairman Kathryn Cockerill said: “The hard work starts now.”

The committee, which has about 16 volunteers, meets every Wednesday and the green-fingered villagers spend several hours every week ensuring the village always looks its best.

Mrs Cockerill said: “We are really pleased with the silver gilt award, which is the second highest accolade.

“We have been going at least 12 years now and the village has been really transformed.

“There will be no resting on our laurels because we have set our standards and have to maintain them.”

The volunteers, who meet at the Croft House community centre in Jackroyd Lane, Upper Hopton, continue throughout the winter and Mrs Cockerill added: “The harder you work the harder you have to work, though we may have a week off for Christmas!”

The Britain in Bloom judges particularly liked the floral displays around Hopton Drive and Hopton Avenue, the village composting area and the amount of community involvement generated.

Judging took place in August when there was a First World War exhibition and special lunch at the community centre.