Rugby in Bloom's ready for take off

The annual contest encourages residents, schools and businesses to make Rugby blossom over the summer, and has become the highlight of the borough's horticultural calendar.

Categories cater for seasoned gardeners and enthusiastic beginners, with this year's contest celebrating Sir Frank's pioneering work at the town's British Thomson-Houston plant, where in 1937 he successfully tested the world's first turbo jet engine.

Award categories for residents include best small garden, best organic vegetable plot and best first-time entrant.

Business categories cater for pubs, hotels, garden centres, community buildings and places of worship, while schools, nurseries and playgroups can also enter.

In addition, entrants who imaginatively interpret the Sir Frank Whittle anniversary theme have a chance of winning a special prize.

Application forms, and more information about this year's Rugby in Bloom, can be found at www.rugby.gov.uk/rugbyinbloom

All entries must be received by Monday 3 July.

Cllr Lisa Parker, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for environment and public realm, said: "Rugby won gold at both the Heart of England in Bloom and Britain in Bloom awards in 2016, and we're keen to raise the bar again this year to help make Rugby look its blooming best this summer.

"Rugby in Bloom brings our communities together and we look forward to receiving a bumper crop of entries."

Businesses interested in sponsoring floral displays for Rugby in Bloom can call the council's parks and grounds team on (01788) 533706 or email talkinthepark@rugby.gov.uk

Photo caption: Cllr Lisa Parker, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for environment and public realm, and pupils from Brownsover Community School launch Rugby in Bloom at the Sir Frank Whittle sculpture in Chestnut Fields.