Event to boost Heart of England in Bloom bid

Released: 13 May 2008

Wolverhampton gardeners are helping to sow the seeds of success in this year’s Heart of England in Bloom competition by hosting an expertise-sharing event.

The Wolverhampton City Council team behind Wolverhampton’s bid, called Floral City, are encouraging people to get gardening. They are being supported by members of the Sandy Lane Allotments and Gardeners’ Association who are running a course on growing your own vegetables, giving people an opportunity to get involved.

Seasoned gardeners will pass on their experience as well as lots of practical advice during the two-hour class which will be held at the allotments in Bushbury on Saturday, May 24, from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

It is free to take part but those attending need to register either in person at the allotments' Allseasons Garden Store, by calling 01902 556110, or by completing an online registration form at www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/floralcity by Wednesday, May 21.

A panel of Heart of England in Bloom judges will descend on Wolverhampton this summer and the race is on to ensure the city looks blooming marvellous before they arrive.

The city council has called on the whole community to back the bid in any way they can, from putting up window boxes or hanging baskets to giving their garden a spring makeover.

Adrian Stubbs of Sandy Lane Allotments and Gardeners’ Association said: “By growing your own vegetables, not only will you be able to produce your own tasty meals but you will also be supporting Wolverhampton’s bid for a gold award in the Heart of England in Bloom competition.”

The vegetable growing class is being held as part of the Sandy Lane Allotments and Gardeners’ Association’s spring fete, which also marks the group’s 50th anniversary. Homemade cakes and drinks will be available.

Participants will be encouraged to put into practice what they have learned and enter the Best Vegetable Competition in the annual show at Pendeford High School on September 6 - which is also part of the Floral City events and competitions.

For more information, call 01902 556110, email floralcityinfo@wolverhampton.gov.uk or see www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/floralcity.

Issued by the press office.