CHESTER’S annual In Bloom competition is set to grow fresh roots across the borough thanks to a new initiative.
To start the new-look campaign, Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC) will launch the local Chester in Bloom competition and will invite everyone to show their support by growing a sunflower.
Feedback from the Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom judges suggests the most successful In Bloom campaigns are those where individuals, businesses and communities work together to foster civic pride and environmental responsibility through community participation.
CWaC is taking this message across the borough for 2010 with the launch of the Schools in Bloom competition.
Executive member for culture and recreation Cllr Richard Short and Cllr Eleanor Johnson are launching the In Bloom 2010 campaign by appealing for volunteers to come forward to help set up an independent committee to roll the campaign out across the borough.
Cllr Short said: “We have seen excellent examples of community involvement in previous In Bloom competitions and we recognise the benefits of participating in the many initiatives to green, clean and colour our environment.
“Now this successful initiative is being launched across the borough. We would like to see as many sunflowers as possible and urge everyone to get involved.”
Cllr Johnson who continues to champion the campaign said: “Great successes have come from the schools competition and it is vital that we continue this wonderful campaign and encourage participation at grass roots level.
“I will be working with CWaC officers and meeting representatives from schools, residential community groups, horticultural societies and business associations from the different communities of the borough to take the campaign forward.”
Entry forms for the Chester in Bloom 2010 competition can be obtained from local libraries and council offices.
For queries relating to the competition contact Rose Millington on 0151 356 6992 or email rose.millington@cheshirewestand chester.gov.uk