Antrim has received a hugely prestigious award at the 2015 Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom Awards.

The outstanding Antrim Castle Gardens and the town’s community allotments were highlights that saw the Town selected for the RHS’s second highest accolade at the glittering ceremony in Sunderland on Friday evening.

Deputy Mayor, Cllr John Blair who received the award on behalf of the Town said; “To win such a prestigious UK wide competition is a huge achievement for Antrim Town and recognition of all the hard work that has gone in to making it a better place to live. The work that Council has done to revitalise and rejuvenate the town over the last few years, the commitment of the staff and the community groups involved in partnership with Council where specifically highlighted by the judges. I’d like to congratulate all those involved and commend the huge efforts that have been made in winning this award.”

Chairman of the Operations Committee, Alderman John Smyth said; “Years of work have gone in to developing and growing Antrim Town through the shop fronts and public realm works, support for events and redevelopment of Antrim Castle Gardens gives all who live and work here a real sense of pride. Community projects such as Muck n more Allotments, Men’s Shed and Friends of Antrim Castle Gardens have all contributed to this well-deserved Silver Gilt award.”

Judging was based upon three criteria; horticultural environment, community participation and environmental responsibility.