A calendar has been published featuring local amateur photographs to support the work of charity aimed to keep Essex town attractive for visitors and residents. 

The Halstead in Bloom calendars have been published since 2002 and see high demand from residents. 

Julia Smith is part of Halstead in Bloom, which was formed in 2000 to compete in Anglia in Bloom. 

She said: “Initially photos were taken by a professional photographer, but in recent years all the photos have been taken by local amateur snappers and we have widened the scope a little by including photos not just of Halstead but some of the surrounding area.   

“Submitted photos are collated and allocated into months and the team then have the choice of which will be included.   

“The design is by a local graphic designer and printing is by a firm in Sible Hedingham - we feel it's important to keep it local.” 

Halstead in Bloom’s aim is to clear, clean and brighten Halstead for the benefit of its residents, workers and visitors. 

Their dedication for making the area visually appealing has made them the perfect group to take over the project while raising funds for an important project. 

“We will continue to plant and maintain the areas that are appreciated by all,” said Mrs Smith. 

“We will continue to provide bedding plants in the town centre, but we will be looking to put in some sustainable planting in some other areas. 

“We are all volunteers and take no payment for what we do.” 

The calendar is available in Weavers Court, Halstead, for £4.50.