LOOKING for something to do with extra time during lockdown?

The council is inviting residents to spruce up their gardens and houseplants and take part in an annual ­competition.

The Islington in Bloom gardening competition has been moved online this year due to the coronavirus crisis, ­running until July 5 with winners being announced in September.

All residents are invited to take part by grooming their gardens, creating a colourful window display or growing luscious house plants.

Environment chief Councillor Rowena Champion said: ­“Gardening is a very relaxing activity and we hope this competition will encourage residents, both experts and novices alike.”

Awards are on offer for the best front ­garden, best back ­garden, best house plant, best window box, best ­container garden, best children’s planting, best tree pit and best ­children’s garden drawing or model.

Entrants must send one or two photographs under 10MB and specify their personal details and category of entry to inbloom@islington.gov.uk For more information about entering visit www.islington.gov.uk/inbloom