KNUTSFORD is in full bloom with a new welcome for visitors.

Large wooden planters have been set around the ‘Welcome to Knutsford’ signs in Northwich Road, Knutsford Road and Chelford Road.

A smaller hanging planter is also on display on the Toft Road entry sign as part of the town’s submission for the North West in Bloom competition.

RHS judges were in Knutsford on July 18 to assess the town in the categories of horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community involvement for its entry.

Over the past two years Knutsford has won gold at North West in Bloom thanks to the hard work of the volunteers who maintain planters and beds around the town.

Their efforts are supported by the Town Ranger, ANSA Environmental Services (Cheshire East) and the Town Council.

This year the judges were greeted by traditional Knutsford street sanding at the council offices before embarking on a tour which took in Sparrow Lane allotments, Bexton Primary School’s garden and the floral displays in the town centre.

Along the way the judges met volunteers from Friends of the Heath, Friends of the Moor, Knutsford in Bloom, Knutsford Heritage Centre garden volunteers and Town Ranger Bob Garner to talk about their contributions to the ‘In Bloom’ campaign.

The ‘Welcome to Knutsford’ flowers, planted by sponsor T & S Riley, will be replanted to bloom throughout the seasons and watered by the Town Ranger.

The Mayor of Knutsford, Cllr Pete Coan, said: “I would personally like to thank all the residents and businesses who worked so hard to make the town look splendid.

“It really does make such a difference to see the town coming together, yet again to show off their civic pride.”