A DURHAM market trader is celebrating after his plants won a Silver Gilt Award in the Gateshead Summer Flower Festival.

Barrie Nattress, who has a plant and flower stall at the city's Saturday outdoor market, won the award for the scent, colour and quality of his produce, as well as the range of produce and the blending of colours within his display.

Mr Nattress said: "I am delighted to be able to bring home this award for the city.

"As an expert horticultural judge myself, I am well aware of the exceptional high standards that flowers need to meet to even be considered for an award.

"I am continually working hard to ensure that my plants are of the highest possible quality, so it is wonderful to be recognised in this way."

He has been running his stall at Durham for more than 20 years. It started as a hobby when he was working full-time as an electrician.

Mr Nattress grows 90 per cent of his stock from seeds and cuttings given by family and friends.