THE deadline is b-looming large for entries in this year's annual Worcester in Bloom Competition.

Worcester City Council, which runs the competition, wants as many people as possible to enter the summer event.

It is designed to promote gardening as widely as possible in the city and encourage people to make it bright and colourful during the summer months.

The competition has been running since 1985 and has seen an increase in the standard of entries over the years.

New to this year's competition is a prize draw to encourage people to nominate a relative, friend or neighbour to enter.

The competition is not just for experienced gardeners, and the city council is keen to emphasise that less experienced gardeners should not be put off.

"There is still time to enter this year's Worcester in Bloom competition with five weeks yet to go," said Graham Redfern, horticultural officer at Worcester City Council.

"But don't delay. We are urging gardeners of all skills and abilities to join in making the city a brighter and more enjoyable place."

The closing date for entries is Friday, July 26, and judging is likely to commence in mid-August.

Judges award points for maintenance, enthusiasm, theme, design, use of space, colour, impact, range of plants, and creativity.

The categories for the garden competition include churches, front and rear house gardens depending on size, patio or balcony, hanging baskets and permanently landscaped gardens.

In the trade competition the categories include pubs, community projects, large and small businesses, guest houses and hotels.

Entry forms are available at the Evening News or by calling 01905 722309.

The prize-giving ceremony will take place in October in Huntingdon Hall hosted by a national gardening celebrity - to be announced at a later date.

For further details, contact the city council's parks and cemeteries officer Chris Waterfall on 01905 722309.