THE Chase is putting its full support behind Mal-vern's Heart of England in Bloom bid.

The technology college will be a key player in the town's efforts to go for gold in this year's competition, due to be judged early in July.

Judges will visit the college, where staff will explain the eco-frendly practices and facilities it has to offer.

A tour of the on-site Garden of Reflection will be top of the list. The garden was created five years ago to encourage plant, animal and insect life to re-populate the school's land.

"We are a massive school, which is taking quite a bit from the environment, so we decided it was time to give a little back," said the school's sustainability co-ordinator Lee Campion.

"We planted a number of indigenous plants to encourage animal life and insects, and put in two benches made from recycled materials."

Judges will be shown plans for the new science block, which includes a roof-top eco-garden to further increase wildlife at the school.

Staff will explain the many projects that resulted in the college's Bronze Eco-Schools award, including an established recycling policy, a school travel plan and proposals for a bio-fuel system to power heating on site.

Malvern Hills District Council will situate its Recycling Bus in the playground to give advice on eco-friendly projects.

Mr Campion, who teaches information technology at the college, said he was pleased to be part of the Heart of England in Bloom bid.

"It's nice to be involved in something that benefits not just the school, but the whole community," he said.