Green-fingered residents will bloom tonight at an awards event.

The winners of the Merton in Bloom and Leisure Garden and Allotment awards will be announced at a ceremony at the Civic Centre where the Mayor of Merton will hand out the prizes.

Participants in the competition had been "busy as bees' this summer as they displayed their gardens, balconies, hanging baskets and allotments to the Merton in Bloom judges.

Merton Council's deputy leader, Councillor Mark Betteridge, said: "Congratulations to all who entered the competition. Taking part in competitions such as these not only helps to beautify the area in which we live but also allows residents to take time out to really appreciate our surroundings."

Merton in Bloom' forms part of the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society's "Britain in Bloom', set up to help make the most of areas both environmentally and florally. The competition allows all members of the community to get involved whilst encouraging residents to make Merton a greener place.

For a full list of winners visit www.merton.gov.uk/mertoninbloom