BUSINESSES around Tavistock are being encouraged to get their gardening gloves out and start brightening up their images by taking part in the town's Tavistock in Bloom competition.

The competition is being run by Tavistock and District Chamber of Commerce and judging will take place during carnival week, on July 15.

There are five different categories to enter this year. They are best frontage display, to include baskets, tubs and planters; best group display, for example, a street or an industrial estate; best use of space available; best shop window display and the Seed Corn Award for schools and youth groups.

David Scrivener, chamber chairman, said: 'The whole idea of the competition is to encourage businesses and traders in the town to make the most of their appearance.

'A great display really makes a good impression on everyone, residents and visitors, it's all about maintaining our reputation as the best market town in the country.'

Judges will cover the traditional streets and areas of the town centre — however, any businesses outside this area who wish to enter the competition are very welcome — call Lynne Hudson on 01822 614814 for more details.