SOUTHEND in Bloom, the town's top gardening event, has been launched.

Council parks technical officer Paul Jankinson said: "Southend in Bloom attracts great deal of interest. This year we have added new contest categories, including one for the best residential street, so groups of neighbours who are proud of their front gardens can team up and enter."

Closing date for entries is June 14. Application forms can also be obtained from the Civic Centre in Victoria Avenue, Southend.