The aim of the competition is to encourage the improvement of our town through the imaginative use of plants and flowers. It also aims to achieve a litter free and sustainable environment, and to beautify the town for residents and visitors alike.

Entries are now open for people who want to take part in the competition and help to transform the town with floral displays this summer.

The competition is open to schools, community groups, residents, local businesses, and individuals, and everyone from novices to professional gardeners can take part.

The town councillors fully back the project, and have  said, “Hertford in Bloom will bring communities across the town together with the aim of improving the whole town. Having an attractive town, filled with summer flowers, helps draw in visitors ands improves the vitality of the town.”

Vic Hobson from Mudlarks said, “We are very excited to be starting up Hertford in Bloom. Hertford really needs cheering up at the moment, particularly with the distraction of the town centre’s current improvement works. Having floral displays everywhere will make it wonderful for local residents and visitors to Hertford, and Mudlarks’ learning disabled gardeners’ are really looking forward to showing off their brilliant horticultural skills.”

Yellie from Love Flowers said, “Love Flowers is very proud to be associated with the inaugural Hertford in Bloom initiative. Colourful flowers are always guaranteed to bring a smile to people’s faces. What better way to bring a little colour into Hertford this springtime. As locals ourselves, we would urge everyone to support Hertford in Bloom.”

Entry forms will be distributed around the town, and are available from Mudlarks Cafe, Love Flowers and the tourist information office.

 Judging will take place in the first week in July.