IT'S that time of year again! Grime fighters are taking on their biggest challenge - to win East Lancashire's most prestigious environmental award.

The annual Grimewatch awards are underway and we are looking for the greenest projects being carried out by all sections of the community.

Entrants must be able to show that they have worked to create a better environment in their local community.

We want to hear from schools, businesses, community groups and local authorities who are carrying out environmental schemes. Projects might include transforming a wasteland into a green haven or brightening up an existing green site.

Last year's winning schemes included the creation of a herb garden and woodland trail at a primary school, and a recycling and litter collection at a secondary school. The competition also has categories for individuals who can prove they are a cut above the rest when it comes working for a better environment.

There are awards for Grimebuster and junior Grimebuster, as well as a category for the best heritage project.

If you have got any green project at all we want to hear from you - and remember it is free to enter.

Alternatively, if you know of any green project in your community, then you can nominate it by filling in the entry form.

The entry form on this page should be sent in as soon as possible.

Copies are also available from the Lancashire Evening Telegraph offices or by telephoning the Grimewatch hot-line on 01254 264317.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.