Wales in Bloom has been cancelled because of the coronavirus.

The organisation said it had been in discussions with the Royal Horticultural Society and all other regions and nations with regard to any Bloom activity this year.

A spokesperson said: “Wales in Bloom realise that many of you will have already been preparing to take part in this year’s Wales in Bloom and we have already received many entries.

“Everyone’s health and well-being is paramount and while it saddens us to a great extent, we believe the decision to cancel Wales in Bloom main campaign 2020 is the right decision for all in Wales.

“You will also be aware of the UK Government heightened actions to encourage social distancing and as our campaign encourages the opposite of this, I am sure you will understand it would be wrong for us to further promote and run the campaign this year.

“As the Wales in Bloom motto says, we are committed to `Helping Communities Grow’ – for this year please concentrate your efforts on `Helping your Communities’ in whatever way you can, protecting yourselves and especially those who are most vulnerable.”

This year there has also been a record number of `It’s Your Neighbourhood’ entries in Wales. Those entries will be placed on hold.

“We are currently working closely with the Royal Horticultural Society and will update you as soon as we receive any further information with regard to this,” the Wales in Bloom spokesperson added.

“Most importantly we hope you all stay safe and well throughout these uncertain times.

“If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Wales in Bloom at [email protected] and visit www.walesinbloom.org and the Wales in Bloom Facebook page for any updates.

“If you are able to look after your own garden, enjoy the spring sunshine and the happiness that flowers bring to us all.”