FERRYHILL is aiming to build on its success in this year's Northumbria in Bloom competition by involving even more residents.

The town enjoyed its best results yet in this year's contest, winning the most improved entry award and an award of merit in the small town category.

There were also second places in the sports ground category, for the Mainsforth Sports Complex, and for the Manor House in the pub section.

Next year, Ferryhill will be entering the same categories, as well as sections for the best park in a small town and best place of worship maintained by parishioners, for All Saints Church.

Town council's executive officer, Jamie Corrigan, has prepared a report for the civic amenities committee, which is meeting tomorrow.

He will outline to members feedback from judges, which include negative comments about the lack of weed spraying in the town and the care of lawned areas.

He will recommend setting up a separate Northumbria in Bloom committee and has prepared an action plan for members' approval.

Mr Corrigan said: "We are looking to improve every year and this plan is to make sure we get as good a show as possible.

"One thing we are trying to do is increase community involvement. We have already got flower beds around town with volunteers looking after them and we are trying to line up some more because our workforce can't look after them all."