Competition will find the best blooms in the borough

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS: There are over 35
categories for green-fingered residents to enter

ARE your begonias the best in Castle Bromwich? Maybe your marigolds make the rest of Marston Green jealous?

If so, there’s still time to enter this year’s Solihull Neighbourhoods in Bloom – a competition which rewards those residents who bring a splash of colour to their communities.

The friendly contest has categories including the best wildflowers, baskets and front gardens. There are also awards to recognise the efforts of schools, businesses and community groups.

Of special interest to residents in North Solihull are the Solihull Community Housing gongs, recognising tenants who create incredible displays despite the fact their gardens often aren't the largest.

That’s not to say that the north won’t be a strong contender in other categories; last year’s winner of the best wildflower display was Margaret Hackett, from Chelmsley Wood.

And there will also be an all-new award this year for the borough's best “poppy patch”. The category coincides with the 100^th anniversary of the start of the First World War and it’s hoped that the red flowers will be sown far and wide in Solihull.

You have until Friday, June 6 to enter the competition. Go to www.solihull.gov.uk/solihullinbloom

•  All those who enter can request a free packet of poppy or wildflower seeds. Call 0121 704 8750 or email equiney@solihull.gov.uk and leave your name, address and postcode.