HOLMFIRTH has won a top award after entering the Yorkshire in Bloom contest for the third year running.

The town scooped a Silver Rose Award after impressing judges with their displays of hanging baskets and tubs of flowers and herbs.

Judges were also pleased with the higher profile given to Holmfirth’s historic sites, with the launch of the Blue Plaque Trail, by Holmfirth Civic Society.

Local pub The Farmers Arms was awarded its own Silver certificate for its hanging baskets and garden.

The pub made its smoking area into a big herb garden with a grape vine and solar powered lighting.

Judges also noted its use of homegrown edible flowers as garnishes and its ambition to make wine out of the grapes.

Netherthong Primary School’s After School Club was also praised for sporting an “impressive” garden of flowers, fruit and vegetables, tended by pupils and parents.

Well-kept residential gardens and the park were also singled out for special mention.

Clr Nigel Patrick, representing the Valleys Area Committee, went to Harrogate to pick up the prize.

He said: “It was an honour to collect the award on behalf of Kirklees Council and the people of Holmfirth.

“This is a reflection on the hard work and commitment of the community and the staff at Kirklees towards keeping the town clean, tidy and colourful.

“It is important in these difficult economic times to continue to take part in Yorkshire in Bloom, to maintain the vibrancy of the town. That in itself will bring money through tourism and business.”

Holmfirth’s participation in the Yorkshire In Bloom competition is funded by the Valleys Area Committee and works alongside the Holmfirth In Bloom and Tidy Trader initiative.

The project is run by Kirklees Council working with Holmfirth Business Association, the town’s Rotary Club, Holmfirth Civic Society and Holmfirth Parish Council.