VOLUNTEERS are urgently needed to help secure the future of a popular gardening competition.

Burnham and District in Bloom sees more entries each year, despite its committee consisting of only three people.

Dave Perrett, treasurer and chairman of the committee, has been organising the event for 35 years but says he is concerned if more volunteers do not come forward to help, they won’t be able to run the shows or fundraise in the future.

He told the Weekly News: “We had around 70 entries last year for different categories; it was one of the best years we’d had.

“Entries have been going up, so the event is very popular, but we desperately need more people to join the committee.”

Dave gave his notice to the committee two years ago, but still delivers entry forms and helps with fundraising because he believes in keeping the competition going.

He said: “It brightens the place up and people really enjoy it. It promotes a sense of pride in the community; lots of people love their gardens here. There are 25 cups to give out and people are really proud when they win.”

The group is not entering South West in Bloom until new hanging baskets are installed in the High Street, as part of the Tesco 106 funding. But in the past the town has won a few Silver Gilts and Dave is hoping for gold in future.

He added: “Seeing a town, like Weston, has won gold is very impressive and it could only boost tourism if Burnham were to win. It’s going to take a team effort because they look at so many things.”

It costs around £2,500 on average to hold the competition, including hanging baskets, planters, watering, insurance and entry for South West in Bloom. The money is raised through fundraising by the committee.

The competition covers Burnham, Highbridge, Berrow, Brent Knoll and the Huntspills, so anyone can enter or volunteer to help out.

To get involved call Dave on 01278-788292.