HALESOWEN is hoping to strike gold with its first venture into Britain in Bloom with yellow and blue-themed planting.

Last year’s entry was shelved amid worries that judges would give the town the thumbs down because of shabby street furniture, but this year organisers are determined to press ahead.

Chamber of trade chairman Steve Fitzpatrick said the Halesowen in Bloom committee hope the colours of the town’s football club will score points with competition judges.

Sandvik and the Cornbow Shopping Centre are the main sponsors and new planters have already been ordered with more than £4,000 from Dudley Council, via the town’s two community forums.

Mr Fitzpatrick said £5,500 has to be raised to fund the floral arrangements, but Dudley Council have agreed to water them.

Hanging baskets can be sponsored in memory of loved ones for £75 with message cards displayed in the information board next to the Wilkinsons store.

Anyone interested in sponsoring a hanging basket or in general sponsorship of the town’s Britain in Bloom bid should contact Cornbow Shopping Centre manager Eve O’Connor on 0121 585 5495.