VOLUNTEERS who transformed Hindley railway station and created an allotment at the town's St Peter's CE Primary School helped Wigan Borough win a silver prize at the Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom awards.
The borough was nominated in the large city category and was awarded the second highest prize possible.
The silver gilt means the borough’s entry was considered to show potential for a future gold medal.
Leigh Clr Kevin Anderson, Wigan Council cabinet member for the environment, said: “This is a great achievement for the people who have worked so hard to bring a bit of green to the places they live in. Just to get to the finals and represent the north west is a spectacular success, so to come away with this prize is fantastic.
"In Bloom has been a wonderful experience and a great opportunity to showcase the borough in a different light.
“This has been a community project from the start and the award is a tribute to the many schools, residents’ groups and individuals who have worked so hard to make Wigan borough bloom.”
Wigan was chosen to represent the region after sweeping the board at the North West in Bloom awards last year. The borough picked up a record 17 awards at the regional competition.
John O’Neill, Wigan in Bloom champion and former deputy council leader, said: "The borough is two thirds countryside, we have ancient mosslands, woods, lakes and wildlife including deer, bitterns and red squirrels – and the difference that In Bloom continues to make to our urban areas is something I know our residents, shoppers and visitors all really appreciate.”