DURHAM City and Sedgefield have been shortlisted to represent Northumbria in this year’s Britain in Bloom.

The city is included in the Large Town category in the 50th anniversary of the Royal Horticultural Society-run competition.

Sedgefield will also compete in Britain in Bloom in the Small Town category. The entry is led by Sedgefield Town Council with the Sedgefield in Bloom group.

Durham County Council’s head of direct services, Oliver Sherratt, said: “For Durham City and Sedgefield to be finalists in the Britain in Bloom competition is a fantastic achievement and shows just how beautiful our county is.

“While floral displays are an important feature of the competition entries, judges will also look for high levels of community involvement and entries which enhance the natural environment.

“We appreciate the dedication and hard work of everyone who is pulling together to create such impressive entries for County Durham and look forward to meeting the judges later in the year.”

As part of the entry for the national title Durham County Council is asking residents, groups and businesses in the Durham City area to take part in the Beautiful Durham Competition.

Entries of areas spruced up by floral bloom should be sent to www.durham.gov.uk/beautifuldurham Judging for Britain in Bloom will take place in the summer and the results will be announced in the autumn.