Youngsters taking part in a year-long Shropshire Star campaign to get schools growing their own fruit, vegetables and flowers could receive awards from the county’s leading gardening organisation.

Shropshire Horticultural Society is to reward youngsters taking part in Star Gardens.

Those whose gardens are judged the best in the county will be in line to win accolades during Shrewsbury Flower Show at The Quarry.

The schools that grow the best fruit and vegetables could also win a prize.

Today Stan Sedman, of the society’s committee, said he hoped to present awards to schools whose gardens stood out. He said a class, or classes, would be created at next year’s show so that the schools that made the most effort were rewarded.

Mr Sedman was chairman of Shrewsbury in Bloom when it won the European Gold Medal. He has worked with two schools to help them create their gardens.

Eighty-six schools in Shropshire have registered their interest in Star Gardens and more are being urged to sign up.

All schools that register get a free starter pack from the Royal Horticulture Society and become eligible for other grants and assistance.

Many schools are organising events during the aut- umn term to generate awa- reness of their plans and to raise funds and encourage volunteers. Schools intend to grow crops in the spring and summer terms next year, to encourage youngsters to learn more about food and the environment.

To register e-mail arichardson@shropshirestar.co.uk or call (01952) 241429.