ENTRIES are being sought for this year's Douglas in Bloom competition.

Homes, businesses and public places that feature attractive and imaginative displays of flowers can be entered into the contest and there are 10 categories in total.

Leisure services chairman councillor Stephen Pitts said: "Every year the entries are of an unfailingly high standard in Douglas in Bloom, a competition we see as a community initiative that plays a key role in helping make the town more attractive."

Council leader David Christian added: "Douglas in Bloom provides an opportunity to encourage a sense of civic pride, especially this year when the eyes of the world will be on Douglas in September during the Commonwealth Youth Games."

Douglas in Bloom application forms are available from Douglas town hall or can be downloaded from www.douglas.gov.im

The closing date for entries in Friday, July 15.

The categories are: hotels and guest houses without gardens; hotels and guest houses with gardens; private houses with gardens; business premises; pub/restaurant/café; public/community garden; best residential area; best Douglas Borough Council property (house or apartment); conservation, wildlife and biodiversity; secret garden (gardening 'gems' out of public view).