PLANTING, weeding and cleaning is well underway as Leicester bids to defend its East Midlands in Bloom title for a third year.
On Wednesday, June 6, volunteers from Working Links, an organisation that helps people get back to work, will be helping Leicester City Council’s gardening team with work on the borders and lawns of Town Hall Square.
Last year, the city scooped the top award in the Urban Regeneration category by impressing judges with the work that had been done to keep the city looking attractive whilst major redevelopment takes place.
This year, more than 12,000 hanging baskets, troughs and planters will be brightening the city as the building and development work continues. Other council teams are cleaning street furniture and removing graffiti ahead of the judging which takes place on July 11.
Stuart Marbrook, City council area parks manager, said:
"Although there is a lot of building work going on and some disruption to our streets, we want to show the judges that we have a city that is a vibrant and attractive place for visitors, residents and businesses.
"It’s brilliant to have the support of Working Links who have given up their time to lend a hand. We are urging businesses and retailers to get involved by cleaning their premises and perhaps having some hanging baskets of their own. Leicester in Bloom represents a true team effort and by working with business and shop owners, we have a great chance of retaining our title."
Lynne White, manager of Working Links, said:
"We recently opened an office in Leicester and wanted to help the council in their efforts to keep their East Midlands in Bloom crown. Keeping the city clean and tidy makes such a difference to everyone who spends time here. It really is in every business’s interest to take part in Leicester in Bloom."
Other supporters of Leicester in Bloom include Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce and the Ramada Jarvis. Those interested in participating in Leicester in Bloom should contact the parks team on 252 7339.
