27/07/2011

Issued by the City of York Council

This summer may not be remembered as the sunniest on record, but nevertheless In Bloom organisers are hoping judges will cast a little ray of sunshine over York next week - when the national Britain in Bloom Judges decide who wins the acclaimed gold award.

On Thursday 4 August judges Roger Burnett and Nigel Bishop will visit York to assess the city's category in the Royal Horticulture Society Britain in Bloom competition.

The judges will tour the city to decide whether York meets the gold standard in terms of our floral displays, green spaces, the look of our local neighbourhoods and street environment including community involvement.

They will visit a wider variety of sites across the city as well as the historic city centre including New Earswick, Low Moor Community Kids' Allotment, York St John University, the Eco Depot and York Racecourse to hear about all the good work that is going on throughout the city and speak to local communities, including schools and local residents.

Liz Levett, the city's York in Bloom co-ordinator, said: "Once again the city is looking fantastic and everyone has been working hard to get York in tip top condition for the day. The floral tubs, hanging baskets and barrier baskets are at their best this year. But the competition is not just about flowers. It's about us all being proud of York and our own local areas too.

"I know from travelling round York that residents and local businesses really do care about their city. Regional Yorkshire in Bloom judges were in the city earlier in July judging the 26 individual entries in the Yorkshire in Bloom competition. They say that from little acorns mighty oaks do grow - well that is true about the people in York who are backing the city."

To view York's Britain in Bloom portfolio visit www.yorkinbloom.com and click on the Britain in Bloom link.

(ENDS)