BLOOMIN' marvellous -- that's Bury, which impressed the judges in this year's North West in Bloom competition.

The borough won no fewer than three first prizes, a big improvement on last year's solitary second place.

For the first time, Bury won in the "Large Town" category, and will go on to represent the region in the national Britain in Bloom competition next year.

Bury also triumphed in the "Best New Landscape Feature" for the new roundabout landscaping at Bury Bridge, and "Best Environmental Award" for a pond feature, recycling and planted area at St Thomas's Primary School in Bury.

Councillor Mike Connolly, executive member for environment and transport, said it was a wonderful result.

"Bury has really looked its best this year, which is great for residents, businesses, and visitors. The 'in bloom' programme is helping to develop real pride in our township and facilitates our aim of creating a cleaner, safer and greener borough."

And Neil Long, head of parks and countryside, said: "This is no mean achievement and results from great team work between council staff, together with hard work from many volunteers."