The streets of Birmingham will be awash with colour this summer as the city launches a floral trail.
The 3.5 mile route of 19 flower displays will adorn city centre landmarks including Victoria Square and Brindleyplace.
The trail forms part of Birmingham’s entry into the national finals of the RHS Britain in Bloom competition and displays include Wallace and Gromit on a motorbike, organic wicker sculptures of hats, a stiletto shoe and handbag.
It also features seven displays related to Birmingham industrialist Matthew Boulton, who died 200 years ago, has been spearheaded by Birmingham City Centre Partnership.
Chair of the Floral Trail Steering Committee Hilary Hall said: “Celebrating both Matthew Boulton, one of the world’s earliest engineers, and 50 years of one of the world’s most iconic cars – both so strongly connected with Birmingham – is a brilliant reminder of what our city has given to the world.
“And the many sustainable features in this year’s entry just goes to show that we are both an historic city and one spear-heading the future.”
It will be on display until late September and it includes interpretation panels and maps available from tourist information centres and Central Library.
Coun Mike Sharpe who launched the trail said: “With some magnificent floral features celebrating Birmingham’s heritage, the trail promises to be the best yet.
“I wish all those who have worked on the trail every success in the forthcoming Heart of England in Bloom and Britain in Bloom competitions.”
Organisers of the trail hope it will encourage the public to walk the route and learn more about Birmingham’s industrial and retail heritage as well as its present-day work to create an environmentally friendly and sustainable landscape.
Last year’s Floral Trail scooped gold in the Heart of England in Bloom competition and was named overall winner in its category. Organisers are hoping this year’s entry will win over the national judges when they visit the city in August.
The regional judges arrive on July 15.
