CHESTER is hoping to blossom again in this year’s North West in Bloom competition.

Judges from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) have been touring the city looking at a range of criteria including environmental issues, recycling, community involvement and play areas.

John Shepley and Brendan Cook took in Chester Zoo, Kingsway Allotments, Blacon Adventure Playground, Chester Racecourse, Overleigh St Mary’s Primary School, and Chester Business Park as part of their whistle stop tour.

The duo then toured the city centre, including a visit to the Mystery Plays stage at the Cathedral Green. They were met at The Groves by the Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr Brian Bailey, and joined him for a 30 minute cruise with Chesterboat.

Chester won Best City in last year’s competition and is determined to retain the title during Cheshire Year of Gardens 08. The city is also hosting the national Britain in Bloom awards ceremony later this year at Chester Racecourse.

Chester’s own judges also have their work cut out for the 13th Chester in Bloom competition. They will visit more than 100 gardens competing in 17 categories: best large garden, best small garden, best terraced garden/backyard, best housing trust garden, best bedding display, best hanging basket, wild garden, best hotel & guest house, best pub & restaurant, retail outlet, business premises, tourist attraction, community project, environment project or allotment.

Results for North West in Bloom will be announced at the end of September, while the award ceremony for Chester in Bloom is at the Queen Hotel in October.