Tuesday 6 May, 2008

A colourful procession of young scarecrows will mark the start of Guildford in Bloom 2008.

Pupils from three local schools - Sandfield, St Nicolas and Pewley Down Infants - will take part in a special launch event in Guildford High Street on Thursday 8 May at 12 noon. The procession will be joined by the Mayor of Guildford and Guildford in Bloom Committee.

Cllr Jen Powell, Lead Councillor for People and Partnership and Chairman of Guildford in Bloom, says: "There is an organic sustainable theme to the launch of this year's Guildford in Bloom, which is open to a wide range of people from schools and businesses to residents groups. It is great to see local children getting involved in the parade. I hope as many people as possible will join the procession as it marches through the High Street to launch the competition."

Sponsored by Burns and Webber for the 7th year, Guildford in Bloom 2008 will focus on how it helps to make the local area cleaner, safer and greener. The competition is open to anyone who is proud of their garden, hanging baskets, balcony, business frontage, allotment, wildlife garden or school grounds. The closing date for entries is 20 June.

Budding photographers can also take part by entering the photographic competition. Photos must illustrate some aspect of Guildford in Bloom and will be judged on content and quality.

Small groups of neighbours or individuals wanting to improve their street or community can also enter their project into Britain in Bloom's Neighbourhood Award Scheme. This non-competitive category is for small, resident-led groups who are working to make their local area cleaner and greener.

For more information on Guildford in Bloom 2008 or for an entry form, email parks@guildford.gov.uk, call 01483 444715.

This initiative is part of Guildford Borough Council's commitment to improving residents’ local surroundings, by focusing on issues that matter most to them such as a cleaner, safer and greener environment.