The search is on for garden beauty

THE search is on once more to find Croydon's most picturesque green spaces and beautiful gardens.

From pretty pubs to stunning schools, Croydon In Bloom will reward imaginative gardening and individual ingenuity.

PAST SUCCESS: Members of Beech and Cedar House Community Garden Photo No: CCRIS210909B by Ian Stratton
BLOOMING MARVELLOUS: Coombe Wood, one of Croydon's floral highlights, which helped it be crowned Britain's "largest green city"

The Surrey Cricketers, in West Street, Croydon, won a gold award and a certificate of excellence at last year's competition.

Landlord Trevor Weller is hoping for more success with a patriotic colour scheme.

He explained: "We've gone for red, white and blue so fingers crossed that's the way it will turn out.

"The customers thought last year's success was great. They've been asking whether we will be entering again.

"We definitely will be because it makes the pub look more attractive."

Entrants can nominate themselves, but the competition's organisers also encourage friends and neighbours to put forward names of potential winners.

David Nicholass' front garden in Derby Road won a gold award last year after it was nominated by a mystery neighbour.

The semi-retired builder is hopeful someone will recommend him again.

Mr Nicholass, 65, said: "It's at its peak at the moment, particularly the lupins and the foxgloves. The garden looks absolute glorious."

Croydon in Bloom not only rewards individual endeavour, but also group efforts.

The community garden at Beech and Cedar House, two blocks of sheltered housing in New Addington, was recognised as one of the best in Croydon last year.

Following its success the garden, which is funded by the blocks' elderly residents, also won its London in Bloom category.

Community garden chairman Jim Beer, 75, said: "The competition gives those involved in the garden something to work towards.

"It's a big part of why people of all ages walk past, lean over the fence, and say 'nice garden, mister'."

Croydon in Bloom is the borough's version of the Britain in Bloom contest.

In 2009 the borough pipped Edinburgh to the "greenest large city" title in that competition.

National rules mean Croydon cannot compete for that title again this year – but the borough has been entered in the "champion of champions" category.

To find out more about the competition and its different categories, log on to www.croydon.gov.uk/croydoninbloom

The closing date for entries is June 16.