IT'S that time of the year again when the green-fingered residents of Redditch are given the chance to bloom in the annual gardening competition.

This year has been designated the national Year of the Garden to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Royal Horticultural Society.

There are many different categories to enter, including recent make-over (in the last two years), general garden, water garden, container garden (including hanging baskets), against the odds and sheltered/warden controlled/residential homes.

There is also a cottage garden-style competition with a £50 garden centre voucher for the winner donated by competition sponsors Badger Nurseries, of Mappleborough Green.

Judging will take place over two weeks from July 5 and the closing date for entries is Friday, June 25.

A competition spokesman said: "If residents know anyone in the borough with a nice garden but who may be too shy to enter, they should try a little friendly persuasion.

"It costs nothing, is a lot of fun and the judges are always delighted to meet people."

All entrants will receive a beautiful photograph of their garden and a 10 per cent discount at Badger Nurseries.

Top gardeners, accompanied by their guests, will be invited to the prestigious presentation ceremony at the town hall on Wednesday, September 22.

Anyone who would like to take part can fill in the entry form, which will appear in the Advertiser next week.