Over the last few weeks, Kingsbridge has begun to flower - first along the embankment and in the Quay area, then on Cookworthy Road, where a boat sprang unexpectedly into bloom courtesy of the WI, writes Angela Taylor.

Next, baskets and tubs began appearing up Fore Street, each growing more colourful day by day.

Yes, Kingsbridge is beginning to bloom! And not just with flowers, as people who visited the market hall last Saturday can testify. There, along with the youth market, was a vibrant display of children's flower paintings, part of the South West in Bloom Schools Painting Competition. It really was a great show, with a Kingsbridge in Bloom cake as the main prize in the raffle.

All these happenings are down to the hard work of a small but dedicated team of volunteers who have turned their hand to all sorts of gardening and clearing, most lately along the Eastern Backway. And also to the generosity of local people and businesses who have raised funds to make everything possible.

With the judges due to arrive on July 10 - just three weeks away - what is now required is support from anyone and everyone, with watering, gardening and tidying round the town. A map at the Tourist Information Centre shows the judging route, but Kingsbridge is not just about impressing the judges, it is also about 'Growing Pride in our Town' - making it lovely for everyone, locals and visitors alike.

So, whether you're a local or a tourist, do your bit - enjoy the show and help the team by pulling out that weed or throwing that can in the bin! Every little bit helps………

Angela Taylor, 01548 854407, kib@gandat.co.uk