Bloom bid will depend on more local support

That is hope of town council clerk Richard Chapman, who is keen to hear from anyone willing to join an organising committee.

While neighbouring Upton and Ledbury have been successful in the national competition, Malvern has not entered for many years.

Mr Chapman said: "We've got to get the town and the traders behind us. It's not just about flowers. It's about cleanliness and community involvement."

Other towns have launched their national bloom bid by getting residents and local groups involved and forming a committee to co-ordinate their entry.

Mr Chapman said he wanted to hear from anyone interested serving on a Malvern in Bloom committee.

The town council has launched a range of plans for brightening up Malvern this summer.

Morgan Motor Company, Francis Furniture and Countrywide Stores have sponsored the Newland roundabout, which has been planted with flowers, including the brilliant yellow imperial fritillary.

Mr Chapman will be using this as an example when he approaches other firms for sponsorship.

"I'll be going out to businesses and saying this is what we can do and will be doing in the town," he said.

The council had also devised a scheme to revamp Belle Vue Terrace and replace the evergreens with a tropical display, including banana plants and flowers in hot colours. However, it needed Malvern Hills District Council funding and Mr Chapman was told this week that it did not have the money.

Another fundraising idea is for companies sponsoring flower troughs in the town centre to be allowed to advertise on them.

This year's Malvern in Bloom competition includes categories for residents' gardens, large and small businesses and pubs. Businesses that hire baskets or troughs from the council will automatically be entered. The hire cost includes delivery and collection, plus weekly watering and maintenance.

Judging takes place in late July and baskets and troughs should be hired by April 22. Contact 01684 566667 for details.

See Opinion, page 6.