Splashes of colour are returning to Farnham's high street as hanging baskets planted by a team of dedicated volunteers begin to appear outside shops and businesses across the town.

In a single planting session in early May, volunteers filled 70 baskets with an array of flowers including petunias, begonias and calibrachoa. The baskets were then cared for by Farnham Town Council's outdoor workforce until the plants were established and ready to be put on public display.

Cllr Mat Brown, lead member for environment, praised the volunteers for their efforts. "The volunteers were very efficient and worked brilliantly as a team to complete the task at hand we are very grateful for their efforts," he said.

The baskets, which will remain on display until September, are available to sponsor for around £1 a day a fee that covers hanging, feeding, watering and general upkeep throughout the summer season.

Cllr Brown added that while many baskets had already been snapped up by local businesses, a number were still available. "With the baskets on display until September, it works out at around £1 a day to sponsor," he said. "We'll hang the basket, feed and water the flowers and make sure everything stays fresh, healthy and looking its best."

Sponsorship is also open to individuals, with the baskets offered as an unusual gift or a tribute to a loved one.

The annual display is organised as part of Farnham in Bloom, the town council's initiative to enhance Farnham's streets and green spaces through community involvement.

Those interested in sponsoring a basket or getting involved as a volunteer can visit farnham.gov.uk or email [email protected] for more information.