THREE West Yorkshire districts have scooped top honours at a recent awards ceremony.
Keighley was named Best Overall Town in Yorkshire for the second year running at the Yorkshire In Bloom Awards, where the town collected a string of other honours, including a platinum award for the Civic Centre and Town Hall Square, and winner in the Large Town category.
The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, which runs through Haworth to a terminus in Oxenhope, also won a Best Heritage Railway award.
Both Shipley and Rawdon placed well, with the former receiving a silver gilt in the Town category and the latter receiving a gold in the Urban Community category.
'There is a wow factor as you drive into Keighley'
In particular, judges praised Keighley’s “wow factor” and vibrant floral displays, particularly the hanging baskets and railing planters at the Civic Centre and the colourful themes running throughout the town centre.
They said: "There is certainly a wow factor as you drive into Keighley.
"The floral displays adorning the Civic Centre, the railing baskets along the roadside and the dazzling colour in Town Hall Gardens are something special."
Judges also commended the efforts of the many organisations and volunteers who contribute to the town’s success, recognising a strong sense of community spirit and teamwork.
Groups including Keighley Healthy Living, Keighley and Worth Valley Railway volunteers, Keighley Horticultural Society, and other community initiatives were singled out for praise.
'A horticultural oasis in the heart of Keighley'
The Civic Centre was noted for its overflowing displays of healthy flowers that complement the historic architecture and strengthen the connection between the Civic Centre and Town Hall Square.
Judges described Town Hall Square as a "horticultural oasis" in the heart of Keighley, combining horticultural excellence with community stories and local heritage to create a welcoming town centre focal point.
The achievement is the result of effort by volunteers, community groups, businesses, partners, and council staff who work to enhance Keighley’s green spaces and floral displays.
'I'm delighted that all the effort has been rewarded once again'
Maggie Higgson, a member of Keighley Horticultural Society, said: "Winning Best Overall Town in Yorkshire for a second consecutive year is a fantastic achievement for Keighley.
"The award reflects the dedication of so many volunteers who give up their time to plant, maintain, and care for our green spaces throughout the year.
"We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved and grateful to everyone who continues to support Bloomin’ Keighley and our vision for a greener, brighter town."
Gardener Steve Thorpe, who works alongside his son Joe, echoed this pride.
Mr Thorpe said: "It is a real honour to be the gardener for Keighley alongside my son, Joe.
"Seeing the town recognised as Best Overall Town in Yorkshire for a second year running makes all the hard work worthwhile.
"Despite the challenges of a long, hot summer, the floral displays have flourished thanks to the dedication of volunteers, community groups, and everyone involved in Bloomin’ Keighley.
"The judges’ comments are a wonderful recognition of the pride people have in our town, and I’m delighted that all the effort has been rewarded once again."
Mayor thanks volunteers, local businesses and council staff for success
Councillor Andrea Walker, town mayor of Keighley, said the award was a testament to the town’s collective effort.
Cllr Walker said: "I am absolutely delighted that Keighley has been named Best Overall Town in Yorkshire for the second year running.
"This prestigious award is a testament to the passion, commitment, and community spirit that exists across our town.
"From our volunteers and community organisations to local businesses and council staff, everyone has played a role in this success.
"Keighley continues to demonstrate what can be achieved when a community works together, and I would like to thank everyone involved in making our town such a welcoming, colourful, and vibrant place."
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