THE view from High Row today is a rather pleasant one. The bus shelters are topped with blooms and the lamp-posts are decorated with eye-catching floral displays.

Darlington is gearing up for its bid to win the Best Small City title in the Britain in Bloom awards.

Our town has been so close to national glory in recent years. This year the emphasis is firmly on community involvement, to persuade the judges that this should be Darlington's year.

That is why The Northern Echo has given its support to the Britain in Bloom bid, in the hope that it will encourage businesses, organisations, schools, and individuals to play a part.

Darlington, one of five Britain in Bloom finalists, has a great deal going for it, not least its location on the East Coast main railway line, and being minutes from Scotch Corner and within easy reach of the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and the coast by road.

It has also built an enviable reputation for its floral displays, with attractive parks and roundabouts.

It is a reputation which should not be underestimated. The perception of Darlington by outsiders who know no better is far from an accurate one.

They think of it as a drab, grey town, instead of the colourful market town it really is.

What we all need to do is put ourselves on the map nationally by winning the Britain in Bloom award. It all helps towards encouraging vital investment in our town.

The judges arrive in mid-August.

The Northern Echo will be publishing weekly updates on the preparations for their visit, and will produce a special supplement to present to the judges, demonstrating that the whole community is backing the bid.

Together we can give Darlington something to cheer about and bring yet more colour into all our lives.