Paved driveways hit chances of bloom glory in Bognor Regis

That is the opinion of Bognor in Bloom working party chairman Jason Passingham.

He told the launch of this year's competition and entry into South and South East in Bloom 2008 the sacrifice of front gardens was scarring the environment.

The sight of the lawns and flower beds disappearing under concrete or paving blocks has become a common occurrence in roads around the town.

The new areas are being used for off-road parking as kerbs become more crowded with an increasing number of vehicles.

"I understand why people pave over their gardens," said Mr Passingham.

"But I would ask them to just leave a space for some flowers and wildlife. It need be only a small area but it can be a wildlife habitat."

This year's efforts got off to a good start with the award of a grant from the O2 mobile phone company for a large banner which will be on show above the London Road precinct for most of the summer.

Bognor in Bloom has enjoyed years of success against its regional, and national, rivals since 2002.

Last year saw a silver award in South and South East in Bloom as well as bronze in Britain in Bloom.

This year involves just the regional event '“ with the judges expected in late June '“ because strict rules forbid towns entering the national award year after year.

About 70 people attended the launch of Bognor of Bloom 2008 in the Regis Centre.

Some changes to the contest's categories include a new civic award sponsored by the Bognor Regis Civic Society.

Those at the launch were handed leaflets outlining the ten rules of eco gardening.

An array of stalls also gave them the chance to discover more about environmentally-friendly practices from organisations such as Marks and Spencer, Arun District Council and landscape contractors ISS Waterers.

Mr Passingham said: "Britain in Bloom is not just about flowers any more.

"The judges will be looking at every aspect of the environment.

"The competition is about community awareness, sustainability, recycling, litter in the streets and water conservation among other issues.

"It's important to the town because it helps to make it a nicer place to live and visit."