THE Northumbria in Bloom competition was launched yesterday.

Stockton Borough Council hosted the official launch of the 2002 contest at the Oakwood Centre, at Eaglescliffe, Teesside.

Floral displays were set up at the centre to greet guests, which included organisations and authorities from across the North-East and past prize winners.

Winners from last year returned their trophies ready for presentation to 2002's entrants.

Stockton was awarded Most Improved Entry in last year's Northumbria in Bloom Awards.

Councillor Geoff Field, Stockton council's cabinet member for the environment, said the council had set up a two-year action plan to spend extra cash on improvements to make Stockton a more attractive place for both residents and businesses.

Stockton will host the award presentation in September.