YORK is bidding to be blooming marvellous this summer, when it again takes part in the region’s annual flower contest.

The city will be going for gold in this year’s Yorkshire In Bloom competition, having won silver awards for the past two years.

Judges will make their first visit to York on April 6, before returning in July for their summer visit.

York is going head-to-head with other Yorkshire cities and towns of more than 100,000 inhabitants, including Hull, Barnsley and Leeds.

The judges will view the city’s centre and outskirts, visiting parks, gardens, and other open spaces; roadside and roundabout landscaping; allotments; residential and business areas; the Bar Walls and city centre; the eco-depot and recycling sites, and nature reserves. Liz Levett co-ordinator for the York in Bloom Partnership Group, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to show off all the hard work that is going on all over the city to make York a great place to live, work or visit. “A wide range of partners are working together to improve the look of the city, including businesses, local community groups, school children and students, residents and the council, and we need everyone to help play their part.

“The judges want to see the whole community pulling together for the ‘In Bloom’ bid.

A lot is already happening in York but we are keen to hear from anyone who is working to improve the image of their local area.” The city will be judged in three main areas: year-round horticultural achievements; achievements in environmental responsibility including wildlife areas, recycling and dealing with litter; and community participation, support and involvement.

To find out more about the York In Bloom bid, phone Liz on 01904 551527