Yorkshire seven up for the battle of Britain

Chris Beard, Chair of Yorkshire in Bloom, said: "The 'In Bloom' campaign brings to the fore the best in local communities; educating and creating awareness of the local environment and getting groups to participate in projects to enhance their local areas, making it a better place to live, which is something everyone can contribute to."

Whitby is taking part in the coastal category of the UK finals, and Susan Davies, Chair of Whitby in Bloom, said: "Everything that we do within our 'In Bloom' activities is in keeping with our heritage and culture; from embracing the town's whaling background, its ecclesiastical origins, through to the 'mad hatter's' tea parties and even a Gothic Weekend.

"We have a lot of people in Whitby that are committed to keeping our town and environment as beautiful as possible. The last time we entered Britain in Bloom in 2006, we were given a Silver Award, and year on year we have improved our result in the regional in Bloom campaign, taking Silver Gilt in 2010.

York, a finalist in the city category, will be facing competition from Richmond on Thames, Wrexham, Stockton and Bury.

Elizabeth Levett, Co-ordinator for York in Bloom said: "We have gone from strength to strength within Yorkshire in Bloom and we are proud to be representing the region. 'In Bloom' fits in very much with the ethos of what we are doing in York, engaging with the community and building on the pockets of excellence.

"The message of 'In Bloom' is about people being proud of their own neighbourhood, more than it being all about the floral displays. In this way, Britain in Bloom is an ideal showcase for us"

YP MAG 22/1/11