Hackney in Bloom, Hackney Council’s free gardening competition is back this summer, giving green fingered local residents, schools, businesses and communities the chance to show off their gardening skills.

Now in its eighth year, the competition not only recognises the borough’s top gardeners, but encourages sustainable horticulture, helping to keep Hackney a green and bright place to live.

Councillor Jonathan McShane, Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Culture said: “Hackney in Bloom is a great opportunity for anyone interested in gardening to show off their skills and help keep the borough a welcoming place for residents and visitors. Gardening not only contributes to a healthy environment but is also a good way to stay active and get involved in your local community and I am always impressed at the high standard of the entries we receive for this competition.”

As long as your entry is in Hackney, you can apply. This year, prizes will be awarded in six categories:

•Best Front Garden
•Best Container Garden
•Best Business Premises
•Best Community Project
•Young and Green Fingered Award

The judges will be looking for originality, design, impact, colour, quality and sustainability as well as specifics outlined for each category.

To apply online, visit www.hackney.gov.uk/hackney-in-bloom or just pick up an entry form at your local library or Hackney Service Centre. All entries must be received by Friday 15 July 2012.

Hackney in Bloom is organised by Hackney Council.

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