Can you help dedicated volunteers battle the blooming drought?

Lytham in Bloom is defending gold in its category in the North West In Bloom awards – and urgently needs assistance with watering with the judges’ visit less than two weeks away.

Spokesman Peter Harris said: “The unprecedented spell of hot dry weather has placed a huge burden on our volunteers.

“They have been in town from 5.30am most days in an attempt to keep plants alive but in many areas, it has been a losing battle with several plantings succumbing to the drought.

“The huge number of plantings has stretched volunteers to absolute capacity and we need help.

“We have appealed to all shop and restaurant owners and residents to water tubs, baskets and planters at their properties thoroughly on a daily basis.

“To help ensure we keep up with the required watering in the public areas, anyone able to lend a hand would be very welcome to meet us any Monday evening at 6pm in Lytham Square.”

Meanwhile, Fiona Boismaison, chairman of St Annes In Bloom, who also won gold in their category last year, added: “The main way the heatwave has affected us is that we require more volunteers to help with watering on a regular basis.

“We trust the displays will be as good as volunteers and the Fylde Council staff who work with us can get them to be despite the conditions.

“I know how hard we are working and also the council workers.”

Contact details at www.lythaminbloom.com and www.stannesinbloom.com