Cities, towns and villages throughout Northern Ireland have been celebrating their success in the Ulster in Bloom Awards.

There are 11 different categories in the Translink sponsored awards and competition each year can be fierce.

This year's winners include Belfast in the city category and Carrickfergus, Coleraine and Waringstown in the large town, town and small town categories.

Broughshane received the accolade of Best Large Village with Scarva winning the Best Small Village title.

Garrison and Larne were joint winners in the Most Improved category.

Other awards are available to local authorities and Craigavon Borough Council was awarded the Crystal Award for the most enthusiastic contribution to the Translink Ulster in Bloom philosophy.

And after its success in winning city status, Lisburn received the 'Roses in Town' trophy for best use of the flower in public areas.

Portadown Railway Station was announced as the overall winner of the 'Floral Station' category.

"Again the cities, towns and villages of Ulster have proved to be the province's jewels," said Translink's chairman Dr Joan Smyth, "and Ulster in Bloom continues to play its part in extolling some of the very best aspects of life in Northern Ireland."

Dame Mary Peters, deputy chairman of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board added her support: "These awards are a testament to the wealth of creative talent, the hard work and the very genuine sense of ownership which is the essence of Ulster. We extend our congratulations to this year's winners."