PURITY is the theme for the annual well-dressing competition, which takes place in Malvern this weekend.

The keenly-contested event continues the ancient tradition of decorating the town's many fountains and water spouts.

Malvern Spa member and competition organiser Cora Weaver said: "Malvern's historical fame is based almost wholly on the purity of its spring water, which is very low in salts and minerals.

"Since at least the 17th Century and possibly longer, the water here has been used for healing. There is documentary evidence of well-dressing in 1879, which probably continued until the First World War.

"Unlike the well-dressing in Derbyshire, which is largely based on the religious significance of water, in Malvern it seemed to be just a celebration of pure water for domestic consumption.

"However, the water artefacts declined and became dilapidated until they were more or less forgotten. So the well- dressing competition is like a renaissance of our heritage.

"Traditionally, the wells were decorated with seasonal flowers, foliage and fruits and we don't expect somebody to go and buy unseasonal stuff."

On this year's theme of purity, Mrs Weaver said people could interpret it any way they wish.

Those who regularly take part in the competition include WI clubs who compete for a WI shield. A silver cup is also awarded for an open class.

Judges include local artist Ian Fearnside, chairman of Malvern Civic Society, Katharine Barber and

Dr Bruce Osborne, co-author of Aquae Malvernensis and Spouts and Fountains.

Sculptor Rose Garrard will decorate the Malvhina fountain in Belle Vue Terrace, where the results will be announced at 2pm on Saturday.

A map of the decorated spouts and fountains and tickets for a Saturday afternoon coach tour around the decorated sites are also available from the Tourist Information office in Church Street.