THE closing date for a competition to find Darlington’s best gardeners has been postponed because of the slow start to summer.

Organisers of the Darlington in Bloom competition are concerned that the recent wet weather, which has delayed the seasonal floral displays in many gardens, will put people off from entering.

The closing date for entries to the competition will now be Monday, July 9.

Organiser Allannah Robinson said: “I am concerned that the very late start to the Summer will be putting people off by thinking they will have nothing to show, so we have decided to extend the closing date.

“The rain means that the only colour on display in most gardens at the moment is green, but hopefully we will get some sun which will encourage people to take part.”

Darlington in Bloom is run by volunteers working in conjunction with Streetscene at Darlington Borough Council and aims to encourage people with gardens of all sizes and shapes to brighten up their outdoor space and show off their green skills.

Categories include community housing, pubs and best-kept allotment.

Gardens and allotments will be viewed by the judges in late July or early August.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in October.

For more information on the categories and to enter, call 01325-347438 or email streetscene@darlington.gov.uk.