DRIVING forces behind a unique seafront attraction - wrecked by winter storms - hope to restore it to help Sidmouth land success in regional and national contests.

Sidmouth in Bloom (SiB) members have set their sights on bringing the beach garden back to life among a raft of projects over the coming weeks.

Much work is to be done ahead of visits from South West in Bloom and Britain in Bloom judges in July and August respectively.

The beach garden, near the Millennium Walk, proved a hit after it was opened in March last year, but wild weather in February left it in ruins.

Volunteers will meet at the site tomorrow (Saturday, May 10) from 10am to noon to see if they can regenerate the area – and will welcome any help.

“The RHS [Royal Horticultural Society] know it’s been severely damaged, but we’d like to see it restored,” said SiB chairman Lynette Talbot.

“The garden was swept away. It’s surprising how many people have commented.”

A bloom working party has been meeting every Thursday morning at Blackmore Gardens and the Ham to tackle various tasks.

Efforts to give the beach a tidy-up on April 26 were also a success.

Another Spruce up Sidmouth event and fundraising trips are also in the pipeline.

SiB leaders are planning a special feature for Blackmore Gardens after last year’s centrepiece, Gilbert, was returned to Regent’s Park in London.

Committee members are also being sought, especially those with business and financial skills.

Anyone interested in helping with any of the above can contact Lynette on 01395 578081.