AN unexpected diversion will greet judges of the Heart of England in Bloom competition when they visit Malvern's rubbish dump.

Organisers of this year's entry are so proud of recycling levels in the town, they will stop off at Newlands Waste Reclamation site, in Worcester Road.

Malvern in Bloom chairman John Jordan says the surprising location fits the In Bloom ethos perfectly.

He said: "It's not all about flowers. If they come on a Monday or Tuesday morning they will see a long queue of traffic leading up to the site.

"It will show them we are coming on in leaps and bounds."

The judges should visit Malvern in early July and Mr Jordan believes that the enthusiasm for recycling shown by many town residents will create a great impression.

Currently, 70 per cent of waste is recycled at the site, with the last two years seeing a 15 per cent increase.

But even with the current levels of success, Mr Jordan believes it is not time for Malvern to rest on its laurels. "It can be increased still further," he said.

Ian Barber, marketing director for site owner, Severn Waste Services, said the company had worked closely with Upton-upon-Severn's entry in the competition for the last two years and was keen to draw attention to the good work done in Malvern.

He said: "We believe that the Newlands facility is a real asset to the town of which the public can be proud.

"As such, we are pleased to support the Heart of England in Bloom initiative."