OXFORD is to re-enter Britain in Bloom this summer in an effort to revive its flagging domestic competition.

It last entered the national showpiece in 2007, and last won the small city category in 2002.

Now the hunt is on for a passionate volunteer who can co-ordinate the city’s entry, bringing together parks, universities and colleges, residential gardens, and well-kept spaces.

Mark Lygo, city council board member for parks and sports, has pledged to enter Oxford in Bloom for the first time himself and will be canvassing other councillors to get them and their constituents on board.

He said the city did stand a chance, despite a reduced budget compared to 2007 – although the exact figure is not yet known.

“I know some people are worried that we can’t deliver, but I believe we can,” he said.

“I’m going to visit the Oxford Civic Society and the universities and really try to drive up enthusiasm. I’m quite positive about it and I think we could actually do quite well.

“We are probably luckier this year than any other because of the Olympic Torch coming to Oxford and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, so there will already be street cleaning going on. Many of the schools are taking part and doing planting, so a lot is already happening.”

Organisers are focusing on more than just flowers, and demonstrating the work going on in the city’s green flag parks – Bury Knowle, Florence, Hinksey and Cutteslowe – in colleges, schools and universities, and in other areas, such as recycling.

The hope is that by entering the contest, individual gardeners will be encouraged to enter Oxford in Bloom.

Only about 60 gardeners took part in 2011, and a fresh appeal for new people to show interest in this year’s event saw just nine come forward.

Gardener, committee member and Cowley councillor Bryan Keen said: “I think Britain in Bloom will bring people in.”

Council parks and open spaces manager Stuart Fitzsimmons said: “If we run Oxford in Bloom with Britain in Bloom alongside, I think you will attract more entries, probably from the commercial end.

“It would be great if we could find a volunteer who is passionate about Oxford, passionate about getting Oxford to win the competition, and has good organisational skills.

“We need a person wants to put Oxford back on the map.”

  • If you think you could co-ordinate Oxford’s Britain in Bloom entry, or want to join the Oxford in Bloom committee, call 01865 252240. To enter the city competition, go to oxford.

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