FROM determined daisies to fighting foxgloves, competition kicked off for resident horticulturalists when the annual Hillingdon in Bloom contest launched at the Rural Activities Garden Centre this week.

Green-fingered contestants joined the Mayor and Mayoress of Hillingdon and councillor Jonathan Bianco to celebrate the event in line with National Gardening Week.

Cllr Jonathan Bianco said: "This popular competition gives local people of all ages the opportunity to brighten up green spaces in the borough.

"Whether you are a novice or a keen gardener, anyone is welcome to enter and take part.

"So why not go down to the RAGC for some inspiration, I'd love to see everyone out digging and planting this spring."

Candidates will be given until Thursday June 30 to show how beautifully their Hillingdon garden grows, with the categories to ranging from best window box to finest residential garden.

Neighbours are encouraged to pull together to win the best community project, either in the residential or non-residential street categories.

There are prizes awarded for best business and for best school where there is evidence the children have nurtured the plants.

The winning efforts will also contribute to the borough’s submission into the Royal Horticultural Society’s London in Bloom contest which will be judged on Saturday September 17.

If this event is too flowery for you, the Autumn Show has a home-grown fruit and vegetable competition for you to relish.

Budding gardeners are encouraged to get down in the mud to show that their garden is blooming marvellous.

To enter visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bloom