The celebration of the glorious gardens created by South Derbyshire District Council’s tenants has begun with the launch of the eighth annual gardening competition.

Says Councillor John Lemmon, Chairman of South Derbyshire’s Housing and Community Services Committee, “This competition recognises our appreciation of the hard work and dedication of our tenants when they create their spectacular gardens.

“Gardening of all sizes is recognised. Tenants can put themselves forward for a prize for the best water feature, best gardening tub, pot or basket. We also have prizes for the best small garden, the best front or rear garden and for those really green-fingered folks, we have a prize for the best front and rear garden. People who look after the communal gardens in sheltered accommodation can also be awarded a prize. There is also a prize of £120 for the overall winner. And we want to encourage youngsters to get healthy through gardening so we have a prize for the best children’s garden. You can only win one prize but you can enter as many categories as you like.”

South Derbyshire horticultural heroes will receive prizes donated by local companies including Garden King of Newhall, Robert Prettie & Co Limited, Harvey and Clark Limited, Powerminster and Universal Contractors of Midway.

Application forms for the competition can be collected from South Derbyshire District Council Offices in Swadlincote or can be sent out by post or email. To request an application form telephone Sharon Cole on 01283 595788 or email Sharon.cole@south-derbys.gov.uk The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 16 June 2008.