BUXTON butchers Arnold Mycock and Sons are flying the flag for the town's entry into Europe's biggest environmental competition.
The Scarsdale Place butchers have contributed £250 towards Buxton's bid to win Entente Florale for Britain this summer by sponsoring one of up to 60 colourful banners which will be hanging from lamp posts throughout the town.

Buxton was nominated to represent Britain alongside the Scottish village of Forres after scooping a silver gilt award in this year's Britain in Bloom.

Success will raise Buxton's profile across Europe and help attract more visitors to the town. But local fundraising is vital to the success of the campaign, which culminates in a two-day visit by 12 European judges in July.

"We have enjoyed a lot of success in East Midlands in Bloom over recent years, but Entente Florale is in a different league when it comes to resources," says Buxton in Bloom chair Jane McGrother.

"Our voluntary and community groups have responded magnificently to the challenge, but we still need to raise more funds."
Roy Mycock, who runs the butcher's shop with brother Geoff, is calling on other local businesses to come forward.

"The competition will be good for Buxton - businesses that don't join in are missing out," he said.

Around 35 of the banners have sold so far, to businesses including the Bookstore at Brierlow Bar, High Peak Land and quarry companies Tarmac and Lhoist, who have bought three each.

A spokesman for Tarmac said: "Tarmac Buxton Lime & Cement is delighted to support the bid for Entente Florale. We are proud of being an integral part of the Buxton community and are keen to help show what an excellent place Buxton is to both live and work."

Sponsors will see their names showcased on the banners, which will be flying from July 1 until August 31. Apart from production costs, all of the funds raised will go towards the cost of the competition.
Sponsorship is available for a cost of £250 for one banner, £500 for three or £1,000 for seven.

For further information, contact Buxton in Bloom chair Jane McGrother on 01298 24779.

(with thanks to Buxton Advertiser)