THE Devizes In Bloom committee is doing its bit in the war against plastic by running competitions with Our Blue Planet as their themes.

Chairman Zena Robson wants people to know that despite a decision not to enter this year's regional In Bloom contest there will be more chances than ever for gardeners to show off their skills and for people to join in cleaning up the town.

Her CUDs clean-up squad is back holding regular outings to clear up the town and to do planting but she is keen for children, adults and businesses to become involved in this year's Devizes In Bloom.

She said: "This year’s theme of Our Blue Planet and is a spin-off from the wonderful but sometimes depressing David Attenborough series recently shown on TV." It showed wildlife eating or getting caught up in abandoned plastic.

On the business front, we have introduced Pride in Your Place. We would like three or more adjacent businesses to show that they look after their frontages, maybe by re-painting peeling woodwork, putting up baskets and or weeding and sweeping along the areas outside.

"We are also asking them to take part in our Floral and Themed Windows Trail around the town again. This year’s theme is Our Blue Planet."

A map showing the trail will be published but businesses need to enter by May 31 to get a mention. Schools and nurseries will have their own Our Blue Planet themed competition and will be challenged to create a sea creature out of recycled plastic.

Ms Robson said: "The biggest challenge will be to make sure that they will be sturdy and durable enough to go on display on the roundabout by The Greens in order to be judged by the Mayor. We are leaving that one to the teachers’ parents’ and the pupils’ ingenuity. "Last year’s Scarecrows were brilliant and brought a smile to many a harassed passer-by."

"Finally, in-keeping with our theme, we also have the young person’s painting competition and we have re-introduced the photographic competition There are a lot of talented people out there and we would love them to get involved.

Members of the In Bloom committee will be at the Lions’ Fair in the Corn Exchange on May 7th and the Plant Fair in The Shambles on May 9th.

There are also new categories in the gardening contest which now includes one for bedding plans and the chance for neighbours to join together for an In Pride award.

Entry forms will be available at Devizes Town Hall.