Town puts its blooms on the line

The initiative, sponsored by Southern Water, looks to promote horticulture, the environment and sustainability within the community.

Littlehampton won best small coastal resort and best new entrant title in 2003 and has also been the holder of a prestigious silver award for the last two years.

Littlehampton mayor, David Dyball, welcomed this year's judges, Brian Stevens and Martin Herd, to the town and escorted them on a two-and-a-half hour tour, starting at Mewsbrook Park, where they met members of Friends of Mewsbrook and staff from Arun's parks department.

Next stop on the tour was Norfolk Gardens, where representatives of the Residents' Association welcomed the judges and showed off their lovely communal gardens.

The judges then met East Beach Residents' Association, which provided a short refreshment break while celebrating the event with an informal party on the lawn.

The residents of South Terrace have worked with the town council to provide a stunning floral display on their houses and have worked hard to enhance Norfolk Gardens.

Then came a walk from Marina Gardens through the town, taking in the war memorial, Chenevierre Gardens and the High Street planters and hanging baskets, and were joined by representatives of the Town Traders' Partnership.

Before visiting West Beach, they saw the magnificent displays at the Arun View pub and FA Holland's Funeralcare.

At West Beach, Dee Christensen gave an enthusiastic and knowledgeable explanation of the flora and fauna found there and also explained the conservation measures being undertaken to preserve it.

Then the judges were taken to the Fort Road allotments, where they met members of the Littlehampton Leisure Gardens and Allotment Association, including Arun District Council chairman Tony Squires.

The work of Wick Village Traders' Association was next. They have been granted Single Regeneration Budget funding to enhance the presentation of Wick Parade.

Mr Dyball said: "It is tremendous that the whole town is now involved in the South and South East in Bloom initiative.

"The main thrusts, developing civic pride, improving the town for visitors and residents alike and promoting environmental sustainability, are fundamental issues that affect us all."

The results of this year's entry will be announced at an awards presentation in Chichester on September 7.