A TEAM of volunteer gardeners are celebrating after winning a number of awards at this year's Yorkshire in Bloom competition.

Thirsk in Bloom beat competition from 12 other entries to win the small country town category.

It was also given the award for the most improved town in the section and was invited to be a national entrant for Britain in Bloom next year.

A team of 20 volunteers has taken the town from 12th in 2001 to winning the competition by a comfortable 14-point margin this year.

The judges said: "The centre was alive with colour. Open spaces and picnic areas were well maintained, with a good use of planters, hanging baskets and tubs throughout.

"The Thirsk in Bloom team should be congratulated for their efforts."

Committee members said they were thrilled by the result.

Chairman Carole Pack said: "This is a truly tremendous result for the whole community of Thirsk, and I thank everybody for the support that we have received over the last few years."

Tony Jordan, Thirsk in Bloom volunteer and press officer, said: "We are a team of volunteers who shared a passion for improving where we live through the aesthetic value of flowers across the full spectrum, from bedding plants in tubs to long-term sustainable landscaping projects.

"Every one of our volunteers will be so proud of this award and the recognition that it brings for what we have achieved together as a community group."