The whole community is backing Bilston in Bloom's bid for gold in this, the 4th year of the town's participation in the prestigious award.

Sunshine is forecast at 10.30am for the arrival of the Heart of England in Bloom judges on Monday 15 July, 2013. During a 2 and a half hour visit, they will visit projects at Bushfield Court, residents' showcase gardens, Bilston Craft Gallery and Bilston town centre where a market-place of celebration projects will create a true market town atmosphere.

Cheryl Welsh, Bilston Town Centre Manager and lead said "We're over the moon with the level of support and sponsorship this year. And with the promise of sunshine, everything's looking positive."

This year the campaign has seen 3 new primary schools enter, gardening competitions launched and Springvale and Ettingshall wards join in. Cheryl added: "With investment and new development on the horizon for Bilston town centre new opportunities for innovative planting and creating a new look for the town has become a reality.

"The real jewel in the crown for the Bilston campaign is the support of the local community organisations, partners, gardeners, schools, children and families. We have such a huge cross-section of people involved, it's been a great year for us."

From the funding secured for the project, Bilston primary schools have received £130 in grants along with greenhouses, tools and potato planters to support the projects of young growers.

Already the town is planning next year's Bilston in Bloom entry on a theme of the centenary of the First World War, featuring the cenotaph area in a programme of events.

Released: Wednesday 10 July, 2013