A HISTORIC city is bidding to clinch a flower competition title for the second time in three years.

Durham was first in the small city category of the 2005 Britain in Bloom awards, and the city's gardening enthusiasts are hoping to be first again this year.

Andrew Jackson, the city's bid co-ordinator, said: "Residents, voluntary groups and the Durham business community always give the bid great support.

"The community involvement is a real strength of our entry. Everyone looks forward to the competition, and it really brings the community together."

The city's deputy mayor, Councillor Bob Wynn, said: "The city is delighted to be involved in this prestigious competition yet again.

"It is a real opportunity for the whole community - the University, the Dean and Chapter and residents - to come together and take pride in the City of Durham."

Durham is on a shortlist of six for the small city award, along with Bury, Bangor, Horsham, Rugby and Stevenage.

Britain in Bloom judges will be in the city in August, visiting Durham's Botanic Gardens, cathedral, university colleges and shopping centres.

The winners of the competition, which is run by the Royal Horticultural Society, will be announced in October.

Mr Jackson said: "The theme this year is Bloomin' Wild, so what the judges will want to see is the environment being made available for wildlife - not just public spaces, but people making their own gardens more wildlife-friendly.

"A successful bid would bring more people to Durham and boost the tourist economy for the city.

"Research suggests that winning towns see a 15 to 20 per cent boost in visitor numbers the year after."

Seven other towns and villages in the North-East, North Yorkshire and Northumberland are also on the Britain in Bloom award shortlists.

They are: Helmsley, Darsley and Whitby, all in North Yorkshire; Saltburn, in east Cleveland; Stockton; Earsdon, in Northumberland; and Rowlands Gill, in Gateshead.