PROJECT chiefs behind the Ipswich in Bloom competition today pledged this year's competition would make the town a nicer place in which to live, work and shop.

PROJECT chiefs behind the Ipswich in Bloom competition today pledged this year's competition would make the town a nicer place in which to live, work and shop.

The competition committee were joined at Portman Road's Galleria by Ipswich mayor, Councillor Roger Fern and Ipswich Town chairman, David Sheepshanks to officially launch the 2005 event.

Several representatives from leading Suffolk businesses were also at the launch in support of the competition.

Ipswich Borough Council has already announced it will be supporting the competition with a £30,000 investment and Bryan Taylor, chairman of Ipswich in Bloom said the 2005 competition would be the biggest and best yet.

He added: "We are trying to create a better place for people. We have always had a lot of support - there were more than 200 entries last year.

"But we will beat that this year if only because of the enthusiasm of the people who have already shown an interest."

Town mayor, Mr Fern said the competition was very important for Ipswich: He said: "The competition will make for a greener, cleaner and more attractive town.

"Huge progress has been made by Ipswich in Bloom over the years and I'm sure this year will be fantastic again."

Mr Sheepshanks also backed the competition.

He said: "We are proud of our town and we are very pleased at Portman Road to support Ipswich in Bloom.

"It's time for Ipswich to come first, but it takes a lot of effort and a lot of volunteers.

"A little bit of colour can do so much."

The competition starts in earnest at Easter and judging takes place in July.

n. If you want to get involved in Ipswich in Bloom please contact the committee chairman, Bryan Taylor, on O1473 726667