Bicester's blooming floral displays need a sponsor to enter a European-wide contest.

The town has been asked to enter the Entente Florale 2002, or Europe in Bloom, competition.

However, organisers need to raise an estimated £7,000 or more to take part.

The town has previously performed well in Britain in Bloom competitions, although it recently lost to St Helier in the national large town category.

Bicester was promoted to the national level for towns with a population of more than 25,000 after winning the town category in the Thames and Chiltern region last year. The town section is for communities with populations below 25,000.

Town mayor Lawrie Stratford said: "I am disappointed we did not win, but to be nominated for the national large town category was an achievement in itself.

"We appreciate the support we had from our sponsors - contractors Continental Landscapes - and our own gardening team at Garth Park in Launton Road."

He said town councillors had not yet decided whether to enter the European contest.

He added: "People enjoy Bicester's displays, but we have to balance whether or not we would be just going for a prize. Cost will be a major factor."