Southern Water is a major sponsor of South and South East in Bloom which sees thousands of gardeners battle it out each year in the prestigious competition in this green corner of England.

The competition is the cornerstone of communities and districts across the region but also part of the largest horticultural campaign in Europe.

Organised by the Royal Horticultural Society it encourages communities to create floral features, permanent planting, wildflower meadows, planting for nature, fruit and vegetables, gardening and much more.

Entries are invited each year across Sussex, Kent, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Surrey, Dorset and Wiltshire for communities to make positive and lasting sustainable improvements to their environments.

In 2007, the number of entries rocketed to 150 in 15 categories ranging from small villages, to cities, to coastal resorts.

Expert judges tour the region in July and award marks based on a range of criteria, including how water efficient entrants have been.

The bloom contest takes into account sustainability as much as floral spectacle.

The winners are announced at awards ceremonies in September and presented with Bronze, Silver, Silver Gilt or Gold awards, with an overall winner from each category.

Winners of the regional competitions are put forward to represent their region in the National Britain in Bloom awards. sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society, and the winners of this go on to represent the UK in the European competition, Entente Florale.

To find out more contact South and South East in Bloom on 0208 662 1021.