GREEN-FINGERED residents are being urged to put their blooms to the test in an annual gardening competition.

The contest, run by Stockton Borough Council, covers everything from hanging baskets to commercial displays, and is open to householders, businesses and community groups across the borough.

The categories in the competition are: best garden, best patio, best hanging basket, best rear yard, best community effort, best pensioner's garden, best local authority-kept gardens and best commercial gardens.

Entry forms are available by contacting (01642) 358528. The closing date is Friday, July 13