THE countdown has begun for the organisers of Darlington's bid for glory in this year's Britain in Bloom competition.

Months of hard work by the organisers and gardeners from Darlington Borough Council will come to an end when the national judges arrive in town on Friday.

The council's team of gardeners will be putting the final touches to Darlington's displays in the next few days.

Supported by The Northern Echo, this year Darlington council is competing in the best small city category.

As part of its commitment to making the entry a community effort, the council has been looking for the best floral displays created by a pub, school, voluntary group, business, shop and resident.

An impressive entry in the school section has been sent in by Abbey Junior School, which could win a floral makeover by the council's team of gardeners.

The pupils have revitalised their play area by creating a garden with picnic tables and displays of plants and flowers.

Michelle Parkes, from the council, said: "We've had some outstanding entries.