THE LARGEST social housing provider in the Bradford district hired celebrity gardening expert Jim Buttress to pass on some tips with a talk ahead of its annual Star Awards.

The annual awards, run by Icommunities, recognise the efforts put in by its tenants and staff, with many of the prizes going to those who have made a special impact with their gardens.

This year, the individual garden award went to Mary Pardoe, of Baildon. She created a "vibrant and varied planting display" to earn the prize.

The communal garden award went to Anne and Anthony Beck, for Heygate Close, Baildon, a sheltered scheme which they brightened up with colourful borders and pot displays. They also took the overall winners' award after being praised for helping other residents with their shopping and putting out rubbish.

A Kids Corner category for junior gardeners went to joint winners, with Kirsty and Lisa Spillane creating a circular lawn with colourful planting in their front garden. Members of the Thornton Police Youth Group also brightened up the garden of a resident who had outdoor ornaments stolen.

The makeover category went to Alwyne and Marilyn Clapham of Baildon for transforming the rear garden of their bungalow with a combination of planting and decking.

A Rising Star award went to Bethany and Swaye Tomblin and Brittany Snowball of Keighley. Their nomination describes them as the new generation of volunteers at the Keith Thompson Centre. They work in the community café and support the youth group by designing activities.

Glenda Eydmann, of Ilkley, was judged Community Star after receiving multiple nominations for putting the needs of other people before her own. One described her as ‘a true neighbourhood angel’.

Incommunities Star Team or Employee award went to Narinder Sandhu from the Aire-Wharfe Neighbourhood Team and Dexter Tikadar from Building serivces. Judges praised the way they supported a resident, who had recently suffered a bereavement, in her move to a smaller property. The resident is happy in new home and was grateful for the help and thoughtful after care she received.

Geraldine Howley, Incommunities Group Chief Executive, said: “The star awards are all about celebrating the inspiring work of individuals and groups.

“Each year these awards put the spotlight on our many generous residents and unsung heroes who take a special interest in where they live and helping others."

David Procter, Incommunties Group Chairman, said: “These awards are a fantastic showcase of peoples’ talents and the community-spirit shown right across our neighbourhoods. This year’s roll call of winners and runners-up is an amazing reflection of the pride our many proud residents – young and old – have in where they live.

“Congratulations to all the award winners and all those nominated. You are the stars of our communities.”

More than 200 people attended the awards, which were held at The Bradford Hotel. In addition to Jim Buttress, Incommunities plundered the BBC's talent by recruiting floral designer Jonathan Moseley to give a display. Along with Jim, he is a judge on the BBC Two series The Big Allotment.

Look North presenter Harry Gration also stepped in to compere the event.

There were also stalls promoting the work of Jamie’s Ministry of Food, Bradford District Credit Union and Incommunities’ Open Field employment service.

All the winners received a trophy and gift voucher.