Green-fingered volunteers – who have been digging deep to transform areas of the village – were given a silver guilt award and for the first time took first place in the small country town category.

Pat Samy, chairman of Kippax in Bloom, said: “We’re absolutely delighted.

“Our success is the result of our work over the last six years – we’ve come close to winning before, so we’re thrilled to have done it.

“The judges commended our sustainable projects. There are a lot of things that will still be enjoyed by residents of Kippax when we’re no longer here. It makes the whole area better for future generations.

“They also mentioned our work with the Friends of Billy Wood and our Butt Hill garden project, which is looking fantastic.

“I’d like to thank all the volunteers, Yorkshire in Bloom and everyone who has supported the group.”

Pontefract took part in the competition for the first time this year and won a bronze award in the town category.

Jack Kershaw, chairman of the Pontefract Town Centre Partnership, said: “It’s a great achievement and I’m absolutely delighted.

“It was a shock to win an award in our first year. It’s a testament to the hard work and effort put in by everyone.

“I’d like to thank UK Coal and Wakefield and District Housing for their donations which helped make this a success.”

Methley and Mickletown in Bloom – also entering the competition for the first time – won a silver guilt in the large village category.

Joanne Lund, publicity officer, said: “We’re extremely pleased our hard work and efforts have paid off.”

The group will hold a race night to boost its coffers at the Royal British Legion club on Main Street, Methley, from 7.30pm on Saturday October 4.

To join Kippax in Bloom, contact Pat Samy on 0113 286 2283 or email patsamykib@aol.com.

Other winners in the area include:

l Ledston Luck, silver guilt, and Ledston, silver, in the small village category.

l Great and Little Preston, silver in the large village category.

l The Bridge Inn in Whitwood, Castleford, silver in the guest houses, holiday cottages and small hotels category.

l The Fox and Hounds in Thorpe Audlin, Pontefract, silver guilt in the public houses and restaurant category.