Larne and Glenarm clinch awards double

Glenarm was awarded first place in the Village category, while Larne was runner-up in the Town section.

Category winners in the 35th Translink Ulster in Bloom competition also included; Carrickfergus (Large Town), Banbridge (Town), Ahoghill (Small Town), Broughshane (Large Village) and Scarva (Small Village).

A special award for outstanding presentation was made to Carrickfergus Borough Council in recognition of efforts to support Biodiversity,

Brighter Whitehead Community received the Community Rail Halt Award for their work at Whitehead Train Station.

Speaking at the results ceremony in The Mill, Downpatrick, Frank Moore, Translink NI Railways route manager, Londonderry line, said: “I am delighted with the ‘double’ awarded to Larne and Glenarm this year. 2013 continues to place Northern Ireland under the international spotlight with many high-profile events attracting thousands of visitors to cities, towns and villages.

“Beautiful plant and floral presentations play an important role in creating a lasting, positive and welcoming image of our towns and villages, and indeed Northern Ireland in encouraging people to make return visits with friends and family.

“It is great to see Larne and Glenarm and new locations from right across Northern Ireland making it into the top three placings. We are also pleased that continued effort is being made to support Biodiversity which reflects our own approach to sustainable business; supporting the environment in which we operate.

“We would like to thank and congratulate Larne and Glenarm on their array of awards, as well as all of our 2013 Translink Ulster in Bloom participants for their hard work and dedication. We would also encourage more people to get out and about by bus or train to explore some of these beautiful places,” saidMr Moore.

Alderman Arnold Hatch, vice president, Northern Ireland Local Government Association, also congratulated all the winners.