Youngsters rise to the sunflower challenge

Sunflowers are reaching for the sky as youngsters put their gardening skills to the test.

The Gazette’s 2016 Sunflower Challenge is well underway, with the judging due this month.

The challenge, being run in association with Alnwick in Bloom, which provided free sunflower seeds, is open to children aged 16 and under. Plants should be well-established by now and hitting the heights.

When your sunflower is fully grown and in bloom, take its picture and send it to Janet Hall, Northumberland Gazette, 32 Bondgate Without, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1PN, or email [email protected] with your name, age, address, contact details and sunflower measurement by August 26.

The Alnwick in Bloom judges will be out to measure the sunflowers around the end of August, or later depending on the weather.

The winner will receive a £25 voucher, second £15 and third £10. Five runners-up will each get a £5 voucher.

The prizes will be presented in September.