DECORATORS who have given buildings in Worcester a lick of paint could end up with a prize.

Worcester City Council is asking for nominations for its annual award scheme, which started in 1981.

A panel of judges scrutinises projects that are believed to "enhance the environmental quality of the city".

Property owners who think they have something worth boasting about could end up with a memorial plaque to put on show.

The council says even a "sympathetic paint scheme" could land the person responsible an accolade.

"There are some very nice shopfronts in the city that comply with all the requirements of the Local Plan," said principal conservation officer Will Scott. "The Orange shop in the High Street is an example of the sort of thing we like to see."

So far, a batch of major building projects have been put forward, although formal nominations are expected between next month and July.

"These include the new police station at Castle Street, the citiplex cinema in Friar Street, the Worcestershire Association for the Blind centre at Sansome Walk, the Sansome Place housing scheme, the Edgar Towers repaving work and the City Arcade," said Mr Scott.

Seven judges will assess entries in September, but the closing date for readers' nominations has been fixed as the end of May.

In its publicity brochure, the authority says a winning project is seldom the result of one person's efforts.

Designers, clients and contractors are entitled to a certificate. The owner of a winning design will receive a plaque, paid for and fixed to the development's exterior by Worcester City Council. Anyone wishing to discuss the competition criteria should ring Will Scott on 01905 722542.