With just days until the arrival of the East Midlands in Bloom judges, green-fingered Oakham in Bloom volunteers and supporters are out and about ensuring floral displays are in tip top condition.

After winning a silver gilt award in the town category last year, the Oakham in Bloom team has its sights firmly set on securing gold when they welcome the judges on Thursday (4 July).

Oakham in Bloom joint-founder and current vice-chairman Joyce Lucas told Oakham Nub News: "Of course Oakham in Bloom works the whole year to help make the town more attractive however, just before the judges arrive, the whole gardening group and Oakham in Bloom supporters work very hard.

"The winter planting was removed some weeks ago and the summer bedding plants, all 2,500 of them, have been planted all over the town.

"Rutland County Council and Oakham Town Council are also involved in grass-cutting, weed spraying, hanging flower baskets and wall manger displays."

On Thursday the judges will arrive in town at 10am and then be driven on an extensive pre-determined route with stop-offs - including Burley Park Way to view the roundabouts, Catmose Arboretum with its collection of mature and newly-planted trees and Rutland County Museum garden. The car is supplied and sponsored by Tim Norton Motors.

They will return to Oakham Library at about 12noon to be met by Oakham in Bloom representatives and supporters before walking to Oakham Castle via Market Place - where Nifty Knitters group are displaying knitted flowers around lampposts - for a buffet lunch laid on by Oakham WI.

"Two hours is allotted for the judging, so it is a tight schedule.

"This is truly a community event and I am proud of all our achievements over the years," added Joyce.

Photo: Planting in progress earlier this month. Courtesy of Oakham in Bloom