GREEN-fingered volunteers are celebrating a decade of brightening up Wotton under Edge through gardening.

Wotton in Bloom is now entering its tenth year and to mark the occasion the team are planning a series of special anniversary events, in addition to an array of colourful floral displays around the town.

“When we sat down at our first meeting in 2010 we never imagined that it would be this successful,” said Wotton in Bloom chair Sue Hunt.

Each year has seen an increase in the number of flowers ordered in Wotton, with more than 170 baskets and troughs supplied last year to businesses and homes in and around the town centre.

“And over the years we have done so much more than simply hang baskets around the town,” said Sue.

“Part of our very successful entry into the Britain in Bloom competition last year involved us setting up the Bloomers2 group which assisted our town council in weeding and tidying the town.

"Although we will not be entering the competition this year as the judging criteria have changed, we will still be out there cleaning as it worked so well.

“In addition, we have maintained the tubs at the main entry points to the town along with those on the war memorial.

“Shop window competitions for the traders and one for the children have brought fun for everyone of all ages.

“And all this effort pays off as we know that it has brought visitors to the town who in turn bring in much sought after trade.”

Sue was speaking just prior to the launch of this year’s campaign.

“Once again this is our opportunity to show just how proud we are of our town,” she said.

“We have a vacancy on our committee and anyone wishing to become involved in any way, whether it is on the committee or simply helping to spruce up the town, can contact me by email at suehunt2@btinternet.com or by telephone on 01453 521263.”

Donations to the project can be made to Sue or directly through The Market Place in Long Street.