​GRIMSBY In Bloom 2010 blossomed with a bang when the campaign launched at Grimsby Town Hall.

The event, which is supported by the Grimsby Telegraph, got underway with flare and fanfare thanks to folk music and a percussive set from Sambalada – as well as a ceremony to remember the efforts of last year.

The In Bloom initiative sees the town enter East Midlands In Bloom to compete with similar areas, as well as a separate non-competitive section for the neighbourhoods.

Meanwhile, the Grimsby In Bloom Committee will also be handing out awards for the best areas, gardens and displays.

Cllr Les Bonner (Lib Dem, Yarborough) said: “Councillors help by mostly co-ordinating those who want to get involved.

“We want to make it easy for anyone who wants to take part.

“Anyone who wants to get involved should contact the local councillors if they need any help.

“What people do through In Bloom makes a big difference to the area.”

Council Warden Tony Burman said: “We got involved through The Big Tidy Up, going around the areas in the weekend to clear up and refuse on the streets.

“When you see young people do something to help their community, and become proud of the part they have played, that’s worth hundreds of pounds.”

He poured praise on Lifestyle group The Inbetweeners – a group of Grimsby youngsters who, as reported, cleared out an alleyway completely clogged with rubbish. They were one of the top winners in the initiative run by Humberside Police.

Bradley Turner, 10, was there with fellow Inbetweeners Mollie Woolliss, 11, and Kimberley Turner, 11. He said: “I think what people have done to help In Bloom is Really good.

“We would be excited to help them out this year, because we might win again.”

Discover what’s in store this year by reading today’s Grimsby Telegraph.