TWO picturesque areas went head to head in the final of Wrexham's Best Kept Village competition.

By the narrowest of margins, Chirk eventually grabbed the coveted title for the second year running, with Llangollen Rural coming a very close second.

The competition was held as part of the Tidy Town and Wales in Bloom Initiative and was open to all community councils in Wrexham County Borough.

Cllr David Bithell, the council's lead member for environment and transport, said: “Congratulations to the winners Chirk and to Llangollen Rural ward on a very close second.

“The work both communities have carried out has been fantastic and I wish to thank the many volunteers in making their place a better place to live.”

Five communities entered the competition – Rhos, Brymbo, Gresford, Chirk and Llangollen Rural, which consists of Garth, Froncysyllte and Trevor.

Judging looked at all aspects of the environment of each entrant.

The competition was judged by Craig Youens and Zoe-Jade Gardener, officers from the council’s Streetscene section.

The judges said it was good to see a high standard of entries, with the local communities working with local businesses, environmental and community groups consisting of both school children and voluntary organisations such as Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Brownies and Guides.

Chirk was said to have demonstrated good aspects of community involvement, cleanliness, and floral displays.

In third place was Rhos.

Chirk can now proudly display the sign declaring it has won the Best Village/Community Award for 2010 and £250 will be donated to the community council for environmental improvements in the area. Llangollen Rural will receive £150.