But it was Mr J. Hurst's garden in Park Road that provided the "real wow" factor for judges Joan Shaw, Carol Husjnak and Coun. Marjorie Adams to make it the overall winner, as well as the winner of the Class C section.

Mrs Simons, of Skipton Road, took first prize in the Class A section, and Mrs Jenny Fox repeated her winning success last year to take first place in the Class B category.

"The weather has been atrocious this year, but it was the same for everyone and we saw some really stunning gardens," said Mrs Shaw at Monday's presentation ceremony.

"We had more entries this year and it really was a pleasure to go round the gardens as well as a treat and privilege for people to let us into their gardens, some of which are hidden away at the back."

Mr Hurst's garden scored 87.5 out of 90. "As this was my first time in this competition, i didn't know what to expect and wasn't sure what the judges would be looking for," he said. "I'm totally delighted I won this prize and it makes all my hard work worthwhile."

Coun. Richard Whiteley, chairman of Barnoldswick Town Council, made the presentation to winning householders, all of whom received garden vouchers.

Don't miss Friday's Barnoldswick & Earby Times for the full results.