Garden lovers will welcome the introduction of the borough’s Britain in Bloom campaign.

The Garden Gang, Richmond Council, Continental Landscapes and Richmond in Bloom have officially launched the borough’s Britain in Bloom campaign to provide employment and work experience for people living in the borough who have learning disabilities.

The Garden Gang will tend a vegetable patch and donate the harvested food to Café Sunshine in the Diamond Jubilee Gardens.

The launch is just one small part of the programme of activity over the next few months.

Councillor Virginia Morris, cabinet member for environment said: “In the past few years we have made a significant investment in our parks and open spaces, to increase the high standards around the borough and so far everyone’s efforts have paid off, with our best results ever.

“This is now the next step. Britain in Bloom isn’t just about pretty hanging baskets brightening up gloomy streets, it’s about improving the environment, enhancing lives and bringing communities together through gardening.

“Edible Britain will see new public herb and vegetable gardens planted across the UK, bringing access to tasty produce to thousands.

“We are proud to be representing London in the national stages of Britain in Bloom and we’re ready to show the rest of the country what we can do.”

For more information about Britain in Bloom, contact parks&trees@richmond.gov.uk.