A KEEN gardener who has been entering his beautiful garden in Oxford in Bloom since the contest began, is urging other people to take part.

The deadline for entries in the Oxford Mail-backed competition is tomorrow, and last-minute entrants are being invited to take part, joining the more than 60 individuals, groups, schools and businesses who have so far put themselves forward.

Graham Perks, 59, from Foxton Close, North Oxford, has been involved in the event since it began 25 years ago.

He said: “I have always supported Oxford in Bloom.

“I never feel my garden is good enough to win overall, compared to the winners’ efforts, but I rea-lly enjoy entering it. It is a good idea because it encourages people to look after their gardens – which has got to be a good thing.”

He said putting a bit of time and effort into your plot brought rewards for more than just the gardeners themselves.

He said: “I find lots of people stop and look at my garden. I know it gives other people a lot of pleasure. If Oxford in Bloom encourages more people to do up their gardens and give pleasure to other people in that way, that’s great.”

Mr Perks’ small front garden is edged with petunias, while his back garden consists of a lawn area surrounded with borders. On one side, he has orange geraniums with blue lobelias, while the other side is brought to life with orange dahlias and blue lobelias.

Over the years, Mr Perks has won a number of certificates of merit and one bronze award, but has, so far, not taken a top prize.

During the busiest times of the year, the part-time library wor-ker and exam invigilator often spends all day working in the garden, while during the quieter months, he will take one or two hours a day to care for his plants.

He added: “I first started off vegetable gardening and gradually moved on to the flowers.

“I used to help my mother with her vegetables, which is what got me into gardening. I find it really relaxing, and it is a lovely change from the modern pace of life. One of the nicest things about it is that you really see the fruits of your labour.”

Oxford Mail Deputy Editor Sara Taylor said: “Some truly fantastic gardens have already been entered into this year’s Oxford in Bloom.

“If you have been intending to get involved but haven’t got round to sending in your entry, do it now because this is your last chance for this year.”