Whitehaven has been recognised at this year's Cumbria in Bloom awards.

Following a summer of judging visits, award ceremonies were held across the region, as part of which Whitehaven received a gold medal and the Rose Bowl Award in the 'Pride in Your Community' category.

The Cumbria in Bloom awards highlight efforts to enhance green spaces and foster community pride.

Whitehaven, which was competing with other coastal towns, garnered praise for its floral displays, community engagements, and conservation efforts.

Judges gave the town a total score of 86 out of 100, with high marks reportedly earnt across the criteria of Horticulture, Environment, and Community.

Workington also picked up a ‘Pride in your Community’ Award with a silver gilt medal, recognising the work of the Workington Nature Partnership at Harrington Nature Reserve, Siddick Pond, Camerton Brickwork, and the Green Space Friends at Bankfield.

Following the towns' successes, Cumberland Council praised the efforts of its own staff, regional stakeholders, Whitehaven Town Council, Workington Town Council, Workington Nature Partnership, and volunteers.

The efforts of the RHS It's Your Neighbourhood volunteer groups were also commended.

Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council's executive member for vibrant and healthy places, said: "Our Green Spaces teams do a great job, day in, day out - working in all weathers - to make sure our green and open spaces look so pristine.

"I would also like to thank all our partners and volunteers for their support.

"The awards highlight our collaborative working and showcase the partnerships in place across our region."

Recent efforts by Cumberland Council towards Whitehaven and Workington's Cumbria in Bloom efforts have included planting new wildflower display verges; a D-Day floral display; sustainable planting; flower tubs in Castle Park; and street cleansing.