NEWCASTLE has been named as a finalist in the UK Britain in Bloom competition.

It will represent the Heart of England region in the large town/small city (population 35,000-100,000) category.

The contest is run by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

Newcastle will compete against 67 other finalist towns, cities and villages over the summer before an awards ceremony in September.

RHS Britain in Bloom is the UK's largest horticultural competition. It encourages people to join together to improve their community through sustainable gardening and caring for their green spaces.

Bedford, Chester, Londonderry and Harrogate are the other finalists in Newcastle's category.

Stephanie Eynon, community horticulture manager at the RHS, said: "Just reaching the RHS Britain in Bloom UK finals is an achievement in itself, as the communities participating are the best from their regional or national competitions.

"We can look forward to seeing some tremendous horticultural achievement and innovative environmental initiatives."