As Britain in Bloom’s Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) judges prepare to descend on Richmond, people are being urge to gear up for one last push to ensure the borough looks its best.

RHS judges will head to Richmond on Wednesday, August 10, for the final judging tour of the area, before a winner of the national Bloom contest is chosen.

Councillor Virginia Morris, Richmond Council’s cabinet member for environment, was excited about the impending visit She said: “A real head of steam has built up in the run-up to Britain in Bloom, thanks in part to the Richmond and Twickenham Times. We’ve seen community projects appearing all over the borough, which is very gratifying.

“Local people are key to our success and they can help by keeping their gardens in good condition, in case they catch the judges’ eyes during their tour of the borough.”

Leader of the council, Lord Nicholas True, added: “There will be stiff competition from other cities I am sure, but between the council’s own efforts, the work of Richmond in Bloom committee and our residents, we are hopeful of a good result.

“I would very much like to thank those who have made the effort to help the council show the judges what a beautiful borough we have.”

Richmond is one of 76 finalists competing in Britain in Bloom’s national horticultural campaign and will be marked on visual impact, environmental responsibility, sustainable planting, efforts to encourage wildlife, use of resources and community participation.

When judges Nigel Bishop and Roger Burnett take a three-hour tour of the area next week, they will view the borough’s best floral offerings and the results of several months of hardwork by green-fingered residents, so any last minute deadheading, pruning and watering could make all the difference.

Competing in the city category, Richmond faces competition from Stockton, Wrexham, York and Bury.

Roger Burnett, RHS Britain in Bloom UK judges chairman, said: “It’s an absolute privilege and joy to be an RHS judge involved in this hugely worthwhile campaign.

“As well as enjoying the breathtakingly stunning displays and seeing the colossal efforts communities have made to make their towns, villages or cities nicer places to be, I also love meeting the people responsible. They are truly wonderful and the passion they have is both inspiring and infectious, I leave each community buzzing with excitement.”

For details visit rhs.org.uk/communities.