A PICTURESQUE village has triumphed over its rivals again to secure a prestigious prize.

Over Kellet has been named Lancashire's best kept village in the annual competition.

It took the honours in the 'Champion Village' category of the competition for former winners - beating off Fylde contender Newton-with-Scales in a close run final.

County Cllr Niki Penney, from Skerton, says: "Credit must go to all the residents of the village for this achievement. I am sure everyone has contributed to this victory."

And joining it among the winners is Arkholme, which has scooped the prize for the best village notice board in Lancashire.

Cllr Penney says: "The village notice board is a vital communications tool in rural areas. It takes a great deal of dedication and care to ensure notices are up to date and displayed in a tidy, attractive way.

"I am sure all those involved in making the Arkholme board a winning one are proud of their achievement."