SEDGLEY in Bloom organisers are hoping to build on their flourishing start and are encouraging people to get on board and give them a helping hand.

The project has received so much positive feedback from the community it is now being entered into the Britain in Bloom Neighbourhood Award.

Residents Debbie Moodie and Nicky Cooper have been spearheading the summer scheme - aimed at brightening up the local shopping centre with flowers - since April.

The community and volunteer-run project received £6,500 in funding earlier this year from North Dudley Area Committee and donations from local businesses allowing them to purchase 37 planting boxes.

Pupils from Queen Victoria Primary School have assisted by growing and nurturing seeds and plants for the boxes located around the school and the Bullring and they, together with traders, regularly water the plants.

Councillor Les Jones, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "The shopping area looks fantastic and I'm sure the attractive floral displays will help encourage people to shop in the area.

"The hard work and commitment of local residents both young and old will hopefully be rewarded when they are judged for the Britain in Bloom Award on July 18."

Organisers don't want to stop here though and are now eager to get more traders involved.

The traders' group, with the assistance of Dudley Council's local centres regeneration officer, want more people to attend the meetings so they can start to focus on other projects and build on the positive work carried out so far.

To make a donation towards the Sedgley in Bloom project contact Queen Victoria Primary School on 01384 812545.