A COMMUNITY group is preparing to take part in the Britain in Bloom UK Finals 2014 after being picked from more than 1,000 entrants.

As the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) event celebrates its 50th anniversary, the Bridgers Community Group form Atherton will represent the north west of England.

North West in Bloom nominated the Bridgers to the national finals of the competition following the regional stage of judging in 2013.

Terry Daly, chairman of the Bridgers, said: “Being invited to represent the north west is the ultimate accolade and stands out as a high point amongst all of the previous achievements of the Bridgers, of which there have been many.

“This also gives us the opportunity to promote and extend the fantastic community spirit, pride and community involvement that already exists in Howe Bridge.”

The Bridgers will be competing in the “Urban Communities” category.

Howe Bridge will be visited by two RHS judges who will meet community representatives and go on a tour of the projects.

As well as the usual bedding displays, judges will inspect everything from recycling initiatives to areas of natural habitat and conservation.

They’ll also be looking at the management of street furniture and public parks, and will be assessing how well the group is responding to climate change and council cuts by giving awards for sustainable practices and inventive schemes to raise money to fund projects.

The Bridgers officially opened their campaign on April 5 with more than 80 residents, councillors and representatives from North West in Bloom in attendance while entertainment was provided by the Tyldesley Prize Band.

The group are also holding a plant sale at the Scout Headquarters, Atherton on Saturday and Sunday, April 19 and 20.

For more information, contact Terry Daly on terrydaly1@sky.com or call 01942 603175 or 07412 521040.