Bolton Abbey Estate has received a glowing report from judges who decided it was the best tourist and visitor attraction in this year's Yorkshire in Bloom contest.

The estate entered the Yorkshire Tourist Board's tourism award category and judges found it difficult to find fault.

In particular they praised the workforce behind the success, saying: "Highly motivated staff ensure very high standards throughout the 3,000 acres of this beautiful site."

"Concern for the enjoyment of visitors is evident everywhere," said the judges.

Estate manager Ben Heyes said: "I am delighted that Bolton Abbey has won this award. We take great pride in the appearance of the estate and the opportunities it offers our visitors.

"An enormous amount of work is carried out by all the estate's departments. The award is a welcome recognition of all the staff's hard work and an encouragement for us all to continue with our efforts."

Nearby Addingham also found success in the competition, finishing overall runner up in the small country town category.

The town was first after the spring judging, but was knocked into second place in the summer round.

Don Barrett from Addingham Garden Friends said the community owed a lot to its residents who regularly turned out to keep Addingham looking its best.

"The private gardens and businesses are an important part of the competition as it is something that the judges always notice," Mr Barrett added.

In their report, the judges said Addingham was well-worth visiting and everyone involved should be congratulated for their efforts.