PERSHORE'S bid for a 2005 Britain in Bloom prize will sprout its first shoots with a chance to discuss ideas and recruit volunteers.

Green-fingered townspeople and representatives from schools, businesses and community groups can find out more about Pershore in Bloom at a meeting to be held at Number 8 next Tuesday, April 12, at 6pm.

The competition has become the largest horticultural campaign in Europe and the theme for this year's Britain in Bloom is fruit and vegetables.

The aim of the campaign is to regenerate local environments by the imaginative planting of trees and shrubs, flowers and landscaping and by dealing with environmental issues such as litter, graffiti and vandalism.

The Pershore bid is supported by Pershore Market Town Partnership, Wychavon District Council and the Community Champions Fund.

Pershore in Bloom project manager Jill Liley said: "The community can play a part in regenerating the town by contributing to tubs and businesses can make the most of prominent advertising by sponsoring a display."

She added: "The competition is a great way for residents to show pride in their town.

"A well cared for town is an attractive place for families and businesses and is all part of building sustainable communities."