ORGANISERS of this year's Ledbury in Bloom champaign are hoping to score another gold to mark the organisation's silver anniversary.

New ventures and partnerships are being planned for the 25th Ledbury in Bloom campaign later this year.

With only 20 weeks to go to the judging day on Monday, July 9, volunteers have already been busy getting the various attractions in a bid to win to win the town's 12th consecutive RHS Gold Award.

One major venture is a co-ordinated campaign to improve the first impression visitors get when they arrive.

All the roundabouts around the town have got their own business sponsors: Helping Hands, Shane Howells, Haygrove, Galebreaker and the Feathers Hotel.

The flower beds and the signal box at the town's railway station are to be made brighter, and the Bye Street area is being refurbished to improve the welcome for coach passengers.

New flower beds are being created in Queen’s Walk and the Walled Garden, in an initiative with Ledbury Nursing Home. And a partnership with the poetry festival is being launched featuring John Masefield’s The Box of Delights.

Chairman Clive Gunn said: “The hard work has already started with the roundabouts. Our volunteers have been busy pruning and tidying beds and planters around the town.

"The plants for the hanging baskets are being nurtured by Radway Bridge Nurseries, thanks to Ledbury Town Council for sponsorship.

“We are always happy to hear from new sponsors; become a Friend of Ledbury in Bloom by adopting a bed or a tub perhaps in honour of a loved one. If you have a bigger budget we also have plans for a major new venture with local schools that needs sponsoring.

“It goes without saying that the strength of Ledbury in Bloom is the dedicated team of volunteers and there is always room for a new face.

"You can do what you want, whenever you want, wherever in town suits you. All offers are gratefully received. Most of the volunteers shun publicity and some appear out of nowhere like ninjas.

"One group meets on a Sunday and I am particularly pleased that the mayor and deputy mayor are joining those volunteers, helping with the big beds in front of the almshouses.”

The group is also on the lookout for its own noticeboard in the town centre, and would like to hear from anyone who can help.

If you want to get involved, call Mr Gunn 01531 634716.