NOW is the time to break out the trowels and gardening gloves to help Ledbury in Bloom, as the small group of volunteers go for the town's tenth consecutive gold medal in a row, from the Royal Horticultural Society.

But the volunteers are in such a short supply, the group has already warned that a Heart of England in Bloom campaign may not be sustainable in the future, despite the town's enduring success in the competition, unless there are more hands on deck and in the flower beds.

The campaign was set to kick off officially this week, on Thursday April 7 at 4pm, with work in the Walled Garden and an update on the town's planting schedule.

But the volunteers have already been busy, out and about.

Group spokesman, Martyn Treasure said: "Some of our volunteers have been planting hundreds of bulbs on the Amcor roundabout."

He added: "We also need handymen who can help us with plant supports and sanding and painting of tubs, benches and bins."

The group currently has responsibility for the Walled Garden, Queens Walk, the Railway Station, The Millennium Garden at the Bye Street carpark, The Top Cross, Biddulph Way flower beds, and all flower rubs in Ledbury High Street.

The volunteers also carry out work at the Homend Mews, Bowling Green and Ledbury Community Hospital.

But a large time commitment to campaign may not be necessary, and volunteers can help "for just an hour a week, a month or whatever time they have free".

Mr Treasure said: "Any help would greatly be appreciated - particularly from new volunteers. We need lots of help."

Anyone wishing to lend a hand should phone 01531 635380."