WYCHAVON District Council is among the pace-setters for one of Britain's top environment awards.

It has been nominated for a Green Apple Award.

The prestigious national scheme recognises and rewards environmental best practice among local authorities throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The campaign is in its eighth year and is headed by The Green Organisation, one of the country's major environment groups which recognises the positive aspects of environmental endeavour.

It is supported by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health and The Municipal Journal.

"We make awards at different levels to allow councils of any size to take part," said a spokesman for the award scheme.

"There are separate categories for councils of similar status and resources, with crystal, gold, silver and bronze Green Apple trophies to be won in each sector.

"Awards are made in recognition of specific projects, or an overview of all the council's green activity.

"By making the awards and publicising the winners' efforts, the campaign encourages others to follow their examples of environmental best practice."

Winners will be announced in August, when a special prize-giving lunch will be held in London.