A CITY has launched its bid to win this year's Britain in Bloom competition.

Sunderland City Council unveiled its plans at Barley Mow Nurseries. This year's theme is centred on the city's millennium logo, which features six people chosen to represent the warmth and friendliness of the city.

The new initiatives for the competition will soon appear around the city, with each one representing months of work by council staff working in the community.

Glen March, head of parks, open spaces and grounds maintenance, said: "The campaign and competition is all about improving the appearance of the environment for the benefit of visitors and residents alike."

Last year, Sunderland was a runner-up in the competition after overcoming major redevelopment in the city using Blooming Construction as its theme.