A TEAM from Malvern's Sea Cadets got busy in the town centre on Monday evening getting ready for the upcoming Britain in Bloom judging.

The young volunteers were had at work in the churchyard of historic Great Malvern Priory, clearing ivy and weeds that had grown up around the ancient gravestones and monuments.

Their efforts are part of the work to get Malvern into shape for the visit of the Heart of England in Bloom judges next Friday, July 25.

This visit will be followed on Thursday, July 31, by the judging team from the national Britain in Bloom Competition.

Great Malvern was invited to compete in Malvern In Bloom after last year’s triumph in the Heart of England competition, when Malvern took the top prize for the sixth time running.

Malvern in Bloom chairman John Jordan said: "The work of the Sea Cadets in clearing the churchyard is just one example of the efforts being made all over the town to make Malvern a winner."

As well as the usual floral displays, judges will inspect everything from recycling initiatives to areas of natural habitat and conservation, and street furniture to public parks.

"This is a great opportunity for Malvern, so we need to make sure that everything is in great shape for the judges."