THE 2015 Basingstoke in Bloom gardening and photo competitions have been cancelled.

Chairman Tanya Ball made the announcement via the project’s website.

Mrs Ball said: “Due to a combination of inadequate funding for 2015 and a significantly reduced committee compared to previous years, we have reluctantly agreed to cancel this year’s competitions.

“Not surprisingly, this decision represents a major disappointment to all concerned after four overall successful years.”

The current Basingstoke in Bloom (BIB) is a voluntary community-led project, set up in 2012 following the demise of the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC)-run project of the same name.

The current committee relies on funding from BDBC and other sources such as local businesses and/or interested third parties in order to fulfil its goals.

Mrs Ball continued: “Our regret as a committee is all the greater in light of unprecedented efforts over recent months to raise awareness among previous entrants, of our imperative need for additional funding and manpower support.

"BIB’s failure to secure any funding under the Have Your Say scheme last March confirmed the extent to which our appeals had fallen on deaf ears.

“We would like to express our thanks and appreciation to our various funding providers and sponsors since 2011.”

The committee are optimistic about the future, however, and a 2015 AGM announcement will be made soon.