BLACKPOOL is blooming - and that's official!

The town has beaten off some fierce competition to take the title of best large town in this year's North West In Bloom.

And what better way for the Citizen to say congratulations than to arrange for a huge bouquet to be presented to Deputy Mayor Sue Wright courtesy of top florist Jeanette Newsham, herself a blooming success.

Blackpool's win was revealed at the Southport Flower Show which Mrs Wright attended on behalf of the borough.

She said: "It was just like being at the Oscars. It was wonderful when we heard the news.

"We also earned a special award from Lancashire County Council for being the third most improved town. This sort of recognition shows how the whole town has worked together to achieve success."

There were smiles at Southport for Jeanette, too, who impressed judges in the five pieces of wedding work category - 25 years after she first won it.

And the accolades don't stop there. Daughter Colette, who manages Jeanette's shop in Highfield Road, said: "The staff also earned second place for our window display which was based on an Asian theme with Chinese and Japanese flowers.

"It was hard work but very enjoyable and a great boost for the business."

Judging for North West In Bloom took place in July and as well as floral displays, representatives looked at the overall appearance of the town, general environment - including litter - and private gardens.

Blackpool's client services manager David Dixon-Smith commented: "This is a big achievement for us.

"With the number of visitors to Blackpool, it is a lot more difficult for us to win such awards than inland towns. We are absolutely delighted."

Other Fylde towns to do well included St Annes, runner-up in the best large town category and tourism officer Jim Vincent said: "St Annes Square looked very pretty during the summer and it is great to be recognised in this way."

Wyre had plenty to celebrate too, with Poulton named as second best small town and Fleetwood earning a county council improvement award.

Leisure and tourism committee chairman Mike Anderton enthused: "We were particularly impressed with the standard throughout the borough.

"The efforts of the Wyre In Bloom steering committee have resulted in very attractive displays."

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