IN BLOOM CONTESTANTS RISE TO THE DROUGHT CHALLENGE

The annual competition, sponsored by Southern Water encourages green fingered enthusiasts, from small villages to large cities, to create floral displays that can be enjoyed by the whole community.

One of the main criteria that entrants need to meet is to use water wisely, so rather than being beaten by the drought, keen gardeners are lining up to take on the challenge and be part of this year's prestigious contest.

Peter Holman, Chairman of South and South East in Bloom, said: "We are delighted that a record number of entrants are rising to the challenge of producing beautiful displays, despite the restrictions on water use, which are in place in some areas.

"We have had over 150 entries and have been working with them, judges, the Royal Horticultural Society and Southern Water since before Christmas to ensure our entrants respond to the situation. The criteria around water efficiency is being made stricter this year following consultation with all involved.

In Bloom is actively encouraging people taking part to adapt their planting schemes and modify their maintenance regimes to ensure reductions in water usage and make a positive contribution to the drought by adopting all or some of the following points for this year's competition:

* Reduce or remove container displays

* Use water butts to collect rainwater

* Ensure water is not wasted or lost

* Use water retaining materials

* Use containers with reservoirs

* Use drought tolerant plants

* Use mulches and planting membranes to reduce water loss

* Only water if restrictions are removed

* Plant in beds, not raised planters

Mr Holman said: "By working together we can all continue to enjoy the Bloom competition while at the same time making a positive contribution to helping beat the drought."