HOLLINS was ablaze with colour this summer as residents competed in the Hollins in Bloom competition.

Now in its third year, the event - set up by Hollins Village Community Association with help from Bury Council - has increased in popularity with entries from residents, local businesses and children.

Local gardening experts, Margaret Orr and 2004 winner Alice Marsh, judged the 30 entries.

The winning entries were:

Hanging basket: 1. Barbara Rooney; 2. Sheila Jenkins; 3. Karen Sambrook.

Patio garden: 1. Roy Spencer; 2. Maura Cranshaw; 3. Barbara Rooney.

Back garden: 1. Cath Hall; 2. Barbara Bowie; 3. Jennifer Tomlinson.

Front garden: 1. Mr and Mrs Dady; 2. Jean Leach; 3. Mary and Alf Walker.

Most improved garden: Mr and Mrs Hulme, Lisa Holt, Mr and Mrs Griffith.

Children (joint prizewinners): Abigail Renwick, Natasha Holt, Olivia Sambrook.

The prizes were presented by the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Steve Treadgold at the Hollins Go Wild Day last month, and he said: "Hollins in Bloom gives the community an opportunity to improve the environment and create a sense of pride in the area."

Advice and funding is available through Whitefield and Unsworth Area Board: call 0161 253 5107.