HALTWHISTLE is preparing for summer judging in its first Northumbria in Bloom competition.

Judges will visit the town on July 11, and several groups have been working hard in different locations to make sure everything is prepared.

Volunteers have been out in force at Haltwhistle War Memorial Hospital, the railway station and Coronation Park.

The town’s efforts have been led by town council chairman, Coun. Alan Sharp.

Speaking at last week’s Haltwhistle Town Council’s meeting, Coun Sharp praised the efforts of those involved.

He said: “I think this year’s entry has helped the town and I’m really pleased with the working groups and their enthusiasm.

“There’s six weeks to go, and hopefully by July 11 things will look even better. There’s lots of work going on.

“I had a meeting after the grounds meeting with all of the groups who have been helping out. There’s a really good buzz around the working groups and people are getting more involved.

“We’re working very closely with the WI who made a really good job on Coronation Park, and the youth club Young and Sweet are doing a great job too.”

The council made the decision to enter Northumbria in Bloom for the first time in years in 2018.

Judges also visited the town in April for spring judging, but will return in July for summer judging.

The town has entered four locations in the special awards category – the railway station, Haltwhistle Memorial Hospital Gardens, Ashcroft Guesthouse and the bowling green.

Haltwhistle Community Gardens also have a garden outside Haltwhistle Partnership’s office, whilst a gardening club has also been hard at work in the town.

The winners of this year’s competition will be announced at Lancastrian Suite in Gateshead on September 25.