COLCHESTER is going for gold and attempting to wow the Britain in Bloom judges.

Assessors from the UK’s biggest community gardening competition will visit next Tuesday to take a look at floral displays around the town.

Judges Andrew Jackson and David Jamieson will meet community representatives and tour local projects during their visit.

They will mark the town on horticultural achievement, community participation and environmental responsibility.

More than 30 green-fingered volunteers have worked to get the town ready, turning derelict land into community gardens and brightening up streets with floral displays.

Colchester in Bloom chairman, Pam Schomberg, said she had “gorgeous places and wonderful people” lined up for the judges to meet.

She said: “Much of our town is stunning this year, especially Castle Park and Highwoods.

“The Anglia in Bloom judges were extremely impressed with the town last week when they visited, as I have no doubt these judges will be too.

“We are pleased to receive national recognition as champions of Anglia in Bloom.”

The Colchester in Bloom committee are hoping their good luck continues after the Anglia in Bloom success.

They even managed to win the battle against traffic wardens and bus lane cameras.

Three weeks ago volunteers were hit with fines after using a bus lane to water hanging baskets.

The baskets, on North Hill, are attached to ten-foot tall poles.

Volunteers watered them by parking up a lorry with a water bowser.

Despite previous permission to use the lane, vice-chairman of the group Paul Leatherdale was hit with five £70 fines.

Essex County Council has since refunded the fines and allowed volunteers to continue.