Colne in Bloom volunteers showed judges from the national competition around the town.

The Britain in Bloom judges spent yesterday morning in the town, seeing the work which has been carried out as Colne bids to win the large town category.

The judges saw the floral displays that had been created around the town, and were taken to the railway station, which has been a key feature of the work this year.

Alice Mann, from Colne in Bloom, said: “It was disappointing when we saw the weather this morning, but there isn’t anything you can do about it.

“The judges had their umbrellas up, but they still got to see the town, and all of the work that we have carried out.

“When we got to the railway station, the skies cleared and they got to see the work that has been done there.

“It’s a very proud moment for all the volunteers when the judges come and you see Colne looking so good.

“The judges seemed very impressed, but they weren’t giving anything away.

“We just have to keep our fingers crossed until October now.”

Colne is up against finalists across the North West, including Bury, Elswick, Freckleton, Garstang, Lytham and Woolton. The results will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony, on October 12, in Cleethorpes.

Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom judge Roger Burnett said: “It’s always such a huge pleasure meeting Bloom volunteers and seeing the great work they’ve done.

“They are passionate people who work tirelessly, come rain or shine, to improve their local areas.”