A historic Ribble Valley village is ensuring its reputation as one of the UK’s best-kept is maintained after winning gold at the Britain in Bloom national finals.

Set within the Bowland Fells, Chipping had already won gold in the North-West competition for the last four years and was awarded gold in the national finals on Monday, October 22.

Judging took place in mid-July and the group welcomed a second round of judges for the national competition on August 9.

Chipping in Bloom chair, Helen Lear, said: “Our community is very proud the village is kept looking so lovely.

The Chipping in Bloom teamThe Chipping in Bloom team (Image: Chipping in Bloom)

"A good percentage of the population get involved and in Bloom is a huge part of village life.

“What a special year to have been invited to take part in the national finals. We want to say thank you to everyone who supports us to make the village look and feel great for people who live, work and visit here.”

During her presentation to the national judges, Helen showed how its volunteers are out and about weeding, watering and refreshing the planted areas throughout the year.

A wild flower meadow in ChippingA wild flower meadow in Chipping (Image: Chipping in Bloom) Helen added: “We also had a hugely successful community ‘Big Help Out’ event in June with around 60 people tidying the village.

“Chipping in Bloom has a great relationship with our two village schools, Brabins Endowed and St Marys RC Primary, and both were actively involved in seed collection and sowing, tending their grounds and growing fruit and vegetables. 

“All local businesses, churches, cafes, shops and the Parish Council also get involved in one way or another.

Bridge a water gardens in ChippingBridge a water gardens in Chipping (Image: Chipping in Bloom)

“We are highly unusual in that we only have our own fundraising to finance our work within the village. The generosity of people and other groups in our community never ceases to amaze me.

“You feel a great sense of achievement to think ‘I helped to create this’ knowing that future generations can enjoy Chipping for years to come."

Adopting the theme of friendship, the group held an Open Gardens Weekend in June to celebrate – with the group having an article published by the Royal Horticultural Society on the UN International Day of Friendship.