BUSINESS bosses in Alcester have been challenged to help fund the floral displays for the town's entry in next year's Britain in Bloom competition.

Speaking at the Alcester in Bloom awards evening last Friday, when local gardeners and allotment keepers were given their prizes, Pam Norman said businesses benefited from the town looking so good.

When clients visit companies they often comment on the flowers, so it would be a good idea if those companies contributed to the cost by sponsoring some of the larger flower beds, Mrs Norman said.

She also suggested individuals could sponsor the roadside tubs, at £50 each, either in memory of a loved one or as a birthday or anniversary present for a partner or relative.

Alcester in Bloom already offers sponsorship of the town centre hanging baskets, at £20 each, as memorials and the scheme has proved very popular.

Mrs Norman paid tribute to the hard work of the team, particularly chairman Maggie Payne and her husband, Eric.

Special awards were presented to Roger Curtis for his work in the town and Scout and Guide representatives for their part in organising the watering of the baskets.

The next event in the Alcester in Bloom diary is a coffee morning at 3 Sherwell Drive on December 4 and the committee will also have a stall at the St Nicholas Christmas market on December 6.