Worthing is bidding to improve on third place in the South-East in Bloom competition.

But it needs businesses in the town centre to invest in hanging baskets.

Worthing Town Centre Initiative is calling on shopkeepers to buy baskets to turn the town into a colourful floral spectacle.

The initiative has joined forces with Worthing Borough Council to take on gardening expert Mike Harwood, who is making up the baskets.

They cost £65 each, which includes watering and maintenance, and will be supplied by June 1.

Mike can also do window boxes or bedding. For further information, call 01903 203289 before Friday, May 2.

Meanwhile, a series of town centre markets are being organised this spring.

The popular French market pays a return visit to the town this weekend, with about 30 stalls arranged along Montague Street on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

On Saturday, May 17, there will be a gardeners market, also in Montague Street.