With a total of ?800 in prize money to be won, it can pay to enter one or more of the categories in this year’s competition.

Organised by Ramsey Town Commissioners, this annual competition provides a unique opportunity for novice or experienced gardeners to showcase their horticultural skills. From window boxes to wildlife gardens, patios to planters, there’s a category for everyone and a chance to win one or more of 15 trophies and 22 cash prizes.

Ramsey Town Commissioners’ chairman Lawrie Hooper said: ‘Every year Ramsey in Bloom continues to grow and attract more and more entries from businesses, private individuals and neighbourhood groups who are all committed to making Ramsey a brighter place.

‘Our awards recognise entrants’ efforts in improving their local environment, whether they are experienced gardeners or just starting out. The aim of the competition is to encourage the improvement of our surroundings through the imaginative use of trees, shrubs, flowers and landscaping to make Ramsey an attractive and welcoming town for visitors and residents alike.

‘Following the successful introduction in 2015 of the winners’ tour to mark the town’s 150th anniversary, the tour is now included in the competition. This enables the winning gardens to be admired and the public to ultimately decide their winner.’

If you would like to enter the 2016 Ramsey in Bloom competition, application forms are available from Ramsey Town Hall. Alternatively, you can download a form from ramsey.gov.im, email enquiries@rtc.gov.im or, to receive a form by post, telephone 810100. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday June 30, 2016.

Judging of the Ramsey in Bloom competition will take place between July 13 to 15, and the winners’ tour will be held on Sunday July 17.