THE 200th anniversary of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal was highlighted to regional Britain In Bloom judges who visited Barnoldswick on the hottest day of the year last week.

Teresa Potter and Jim Leak, from North West in Bloom, toured the West Craven town last Tuesday, judging its horticultural highlights and meeting some of the volunteers helping to keep the town in tip-top condition.

“The judges seemed really impressed with Barnoldswick,” said bloom group spokesman, David Whipp. “Flowerbeds looked brilliant in the summer sun, and wherever we went, the town was clean and tidy.

“They weren’t giving anything away, though, and we’ll have to wait until October before we get the result.

“Please can I thank everyone who has played a part in helping to make our town so lovely, not just for judging day, but throughout the year. Volunteers in Barnoldswick do a fantastic job – I can’t praise them enough.”

At Fernlea Avenue, the judges were introduced to representatives of the four Barnoldswick primary schools, who have helped create a temporary ‘canal boat’ in the town centre.

“This year, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal celebrates its 200th anniversary,” added David. “The bloom group has adopted the entire length of the canal through the town and has been working on improvements for the past 12 months.

“We thought the canal was a fitting theme for a special feature; the judges certainly seemed to enjoy it.”

Judges ended their tour at Greenberfield Locks, where they met volunteer lock-keeper, David Fitch, and inspected some of the work carried out by the bloom group on the canal.

With Britain in Bloom judging out of the way, Barnoldswick residents are being invited to help celebrate the contribution made towards the town’s colourful horticulture by individuals, groups and businesses.

Nominations for the Barnoldswick in Bloom Awards are open until the end of July, with entry forms available at the Rainhall Centre and Civic Hall.