Carse in Bloom is the name we have chosen, with the help of our local school, for the group which represents the villages of St Madoes & Glencarse - about 700 households in total. We set up our group in March 2010, starting small but we have engaged actively with all aspects of the community.

Our first project was a Litter Pick which took place in April and resulted in more than 80 bags of rubbish being collected. The group has donated a planter to the school allowing them to undertake a horticultural project of their own. Currently we have five planters placed in the two villages which have been well received by the local residents.

We have set up a website and are now planning a noticeboard so that we can publicise our activities more easily and we are organising a leaflet drop to offer individuals, families and groups the opportunity to sponsor a planter for next year. We are also seeking ways to raise more funds - we recently held a car boot sale and also a quiz to swell our coffers.

We are very pleased with what we have achieved in such a short time - including two awards in the 2010 Take a Pride in Perthshire competition.

To find out more about us, please go to our website www.carseinbloom.org.uk