RECORD numbers of people have entered the annual Barnet in Bloom competition to find the most green-fingered residents in the borough.

Residents and businesses have two weeks left to enter one of ten categories, including best front garden, young gardener of the year and best bloomin' pub, bar or restaurant.

It is the 20th year the awards will be judged on both the visual effect and sustainability of each entry with extra points for people using homemade compost and collected rainwater.

Mayor of Barnet Councillor Anthony Finn said: "Thanks to all the dedicated and creative gardeners who enter the competition, Barnet in Bloom brings a wonderful splash of colour to the borough each summer.

“With yet again a high number of entries and new categories introduced, I'm sure this year's contest will be even more exciting."

The categories are best front garden, best balcony display, best community garden, best pub, bar or restaurant, best display outside a place of worship, most eco-friendly, best floral display, best blooming business and best school garden.

All entries must be within the borough of Barnet and visible to the passing public, apart from the best school garden and young gardener of the year categories.

To request an entry form, email civic.events@barnet.gov.uk, download a copy from www.barnet.gov.uk/barnetinbloom2010 or pick one up from your local library.

Entries received after June 30 will not be accepted. Judging will take place at the beginning of July.