MALVERN is set to be in full bloom this summer as it prepares for a national flower competition.

The town is entering the Heart of England section of Britain In Bloom this year following the success of its Malvern In Bloom competition last year.

Last year's event saw a whole host of businesses, organisations and residents adorn their properties with colourful blooms.

The town council has now set aside some money in its 2006/07 budget as the town now takes on other settlements in the region in the Britain in Bloom competition.

A total of £2,100 is set to be spent on 14 flower barrier baskets for Belle Vue Terrace and £920 on four flower poles for Malvern town centre.

The council is also hoping traders will stump up £1,000 between them to pay for 45 extra hanging baskets in the town. A further £1,000 will be spent to refurbish the Townsend Way roundabout in preparation and £4,080 will pay for watering arrangements for the blooms over the summer period.

A steering group made up of representatives from various organisations including the district council, Malvern Civic Society and the Malvern Hills Conservators is now set to consider the route to take judges around the town, with judging taking place in July.

Publicity leaflets are also set to be produced encouraging people to get involved with the competition, with council officers also seeking sponsorship from traders and businesses.

Now council members are set to be updated on the town's progress in entering the competition at a meeting at 6pm on Tuesday, January 25, at its offices in Belle Vue Terrace.