BEXLEY in Bloom has had a revamp this year as the borough aims for gold in London in Bloom.

In 2006, Bexley was awarded a Silver Gilt in the prestigious competition but this year local In Bloom organisers want to go for the top award in the capital-wide contest.

New categories have been introduced to encourage more people across the borough to enter the competition, including ones for back gardens and allotments.

There's also a host of new categories for schools. Judge Dave Thomas said: "The judges are already planning for this summer's competition and look forward for the first time to seeing some back gardens, school vegetable plots and the many pleasant surprises on route.

"As in previous years the judges will enter a number of gardens into the London in Bloom competition to be judged in the first two weeks of July and it is hoped that with your help Bexley will improve on their 2006 Silver Gilt award and gain Gold in 2007.

"This competition not only gives pride to the borough but could also improve your property prices as has been proved in other London boroughs.

"The garden centres have barrow-loads of ideas available and will be more than happy to advise on plants, composts planting times so why not kick off spring early and have a stroll this weekend."

To enter simply complete the entry form to be printed in this paper over the coming weeks. Leaflets and vvvforms will also be available from public buildings, libraries, Danson Visitors Centre and Hall Place House and Gardens from later this month.