FLOWER power will return again this year for the fourth annual Cornwall in Bloom competition.

Residents are being encouraged to get into the green-fingered spirit by joining forces to improve their neighbourhoods.

To help set groups on the right path, the council is hosting a training event to provide tips on planting, grant funding and marketing.

The training event takes place on February 9 at Morley Tamblyn Lodge at Lodge Hill in Liskeard from 10am to 3pm.

Run by Cornwall Council and Truro City Council, the Cornwall in Bloom competition has encouraged many to give their gardens and open spaces a make-over. A range of projects have been set up since the competition started in 2009, including woodland groups and allotment societies.

This year, the event will include a schools' competition to encourage youngsters to grow as many potatoes as they can from a single seed potato. Judging for the competition takes place during July and August.

'I congratulate the Cornwall in Bloom team on their continuing success,' said Cllr John Pollard, Cornwall Council portfolio holder for localism, sustainability and devolution.

'Each year more communities sign up and we would like to see this trend continue this year. I have personal experience of just how much a local "in bloom" group can achieve and urge all towns and parishes to get involved.'

For more information contact Jackie Mace on 0300 1234100 or [email protected]">[email protected]