TWO spectacular floral displays have appeared in Wisbech as the town gears itself up for this year's Anglia in Bloom and Britain in Bloom competitions.

Eastern Daily Press: St Peter's Church Gardens, Wisbech,St Peter's Church Gardens, Wisbech, (Image: Archant)

The one at St Peter's Church celebrates 50 years of the Rose Fair. The second, in Wisbech Park, is an improved version of the 'Tidy Fenland – Be Part of It' flowerbed first seen there last year.

Councillor Peter Murphy, Fenland District Council's portfolio holder responsible for the environment, joined Bob Ollier, the council's parks and open spaces manager, members of the Friends of St Peter's, the Friends of Wisbech Park and Wisbech in Bloom at both displays.

Staff from The Landscape Group, FDC's grounds maintenance contractors, were also present.

Cllr Murphy said: 'Wisbech always does the district proud with its In Bloom entries and this year will be no exception.

'It's wonderful to have something special marking the Rose Fair's anniversary and the flowerbed in the park is a great way of reminding people of the part they can play in keeping all our open spaces clean and tidy for everyone to enjoy.'

The Rose Fair, which takes place from July 3-7, is one of the most prestigious flower festivals in England.

Churches taking part include St Peter and St Paul's, which will be hosting a craft market through the fair, Wisbech Baptist Church, Trinity Methodist Church and United Reform Church.

The Rose Fair began in 1963 when local rose growers sold rose buds in the church gardens to raise funds for the restoration of the church, which dates back to Norman times.

The highlight of the event will be the parades of floats, which this year will have the theme wonders of the world, through the town on Saturday July 6.