BRITAIN in Bloom national finalist Altrincham In Bloom is appealing for people to dig deep as it embarks on a momentous campaign for 2017.

It is an ambitious year for the town’s triple-gold In Bloom group but all of its environmental improvement projects require funding.

In order to make the town shine under a national spotlight, they are hoping to develop some impressive and yet sustainable displays this year.

In the past, funds have been raised in a variety of ways including bake sales, raffles, collections and corporate donations.

Grant funding is also sometimes forthcoming but cannot be relied upon, so supporters are encouraged to attend the Altrincham In Bloom’s Community Support Dinner at Bistrot Pierre on Thursday March 9, which offers a three course meal for £28 including a glass of fizz on arrival.

There will also be a ‘wrapped raffle’.

Supporters can also donate via Altrincham In Bloom’s online crowdfunding page or buy tickets for Altrincham Rotary Club’s ‘Purple4Polio’ Spring Ball on April 27.

The ball offers live entertainment, a drinks reception and a four course meal for £35.

Altrincham In Bloom will be one of three beneficiaries.

Sarah Walmsley, Altrincham In Bloom project coordinator, said: “We really do need the public to show their support by making these fundraising events a success and donating online.

“We have been working hard to raise funds since last October when we heard of our nomination to the UK finals. However, we still have a long way to go if we are to bring our plans into fruition. Every penny that people can donate will be a blessing.”

Sponsored by not-for-profit environmental community group, Our Altrincham, Altrincham In Bloom is an entirely voluntary project which collaborates with numerous other organisations, groups and businesses in the town. Our Altrincham coordinates environmental elements, while Art With a Heart coordinates Arts elements.

For more information or to buy tickets for the Altrincham in Bloom Community Support Dinner, email sarahw@ouraltrincham.org. To make a donation to the group’s Just Giving page visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/AltrinchamInBloom or for details about the Altrincham Rotary Club’s Spring Ball, visit altrinchamrotary.org.uk.