Bury in Bloom launch under way

ORGANISERS of a town's entry in the country's biggest floral competition are hoping to add to their ever-growing trophy collection after launching this year's contest.

Bury St Edmunds' push for more prizes in the popular Britain in Bloom event begun last night.

But the town's chances within the competition were nearly dealt a critical blow in February, when Suffolk County Council bosses feared ancient lampposts could crack under the strain of heavy hanging baskets. Concerns were raised they could fall on people's heads and cause serious injury.

A compromise was reached when Bury Town Council promised £6,000 to buy purpose-built stands on which at least five displays can be hung.

“In February, the hanging basket controversy entered on to the world stage to a degree to rival the Hanging Gardens of Babylon,” said Mike Ames, chairman of Bury in Bloom.

“But happily, common sense has prevailed. We are feeling quietly confident that we will have a very good display and, in some respects, better than previous years.

“Bury will bloom with its hanging basket this year, and all the signs are we are going to have a good show.”

Last year, Bury scooped a Silver Gilt award - the second highest prize possible - for the efforts made in the competition.

The accolade was added to the ever-growing collection in the town's trophy cabinet. In previous years, Bury won the Britain in Bloom title and picked up gold in Anglia in Bloom.

Now organisers are hoping to gather even more sponsorship to help the town come up trumps once more.

“I expect to have no trouble raising sponsorship for these beautiful additions to Bury's floral face,” said Julia Rackowe, sponsorship officer. The basket trees will be strategically placed around the town's shopping areas, enhancing the already lovely environment and bringing pleasure to shoppers and villagers alike.”

Organisations interested in sponsorship should contact Julia on 01284 701730.