HILLINGDON will once again represent London in the 50th annual Britain in Bloom competition.

The borough was chosen from 1,000 areas from across the UK to take part in the prestigious competition, staged by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

Hillingdon will be hoping to improve on the silver won in the Large City category last year, after triumphing at last September's London in Bloom Awards, and will be amongst 74 finalists across all categories.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Bristol in October.

Councillor Jonathan Bianco, Hillingdon's Cabinet Member for Business Services, said: "We’re delighted to once again represent London for Britain in Bloom 2014.

"I hope to see even more residents actively getting involved – whether it’s to learn more about horticulture or show off their skills.

"Our continued success in these events, along with achieving the highest number of green flag awards in the country last year, demonstrates that Hillingdon’s communities have a real passion and awareness for improving our environment."

Hillingdon was named overall winner for the second year running, and was awarded Gold status.

The borough’s entry is coordinated by Hillingdon Council, and this summer, two RHS judges will be taken on a tour of local projects.

As well as the usual bedding displays, judges will look at local recycling initiatives, and areas of natural habitat and conservation. They’ll also be assessing the management of street furniture and public parks, and how well the authority is responding to climate change. Awards will be given for sustainable practices and inventive schemes to raise money to fund projects.

Stephanie Eynon, RHS Community Horticulture Manager, said: “This is a really special year to be an RHS Britain in Bloom finalist because it’s the fiftieth anniversary of the campaign.

"We would like to congratulate every group for reaching the finals of RHS Britain in Bloom but...it’s not about beating fellow finalists, it’s about volunteers of all ages and walks of life gaining recognition for their extraordinary efforts to improve streets and neighbourhoods in towns, villages and cities across Britain."

For more information, visit www.rhs.org.uk/communities