HUNDREDS of people flocked to a castle in the region at the weekend to catch a glimpse of an exotic orchid named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love.

The paphiopedilum, which is also known as The Slippers of Aphrodite, was the star attraction at this year's Raby Castle Orchid Show.

Visitors were delighted with the Asian orchid, which is shaped like a delicate slipper and organisers expected to see more than 2,500 people at the event.

The orchid show, which continues today, has proved popular with visitors and exhibitors all over the country and this is the fourth time it has been held in the grand setting of the castle, near Staindrop, in County Durham.

Catherine Turnbull, of Raby Castle, said: "This has been a popular event with people coming from all over the region to look at the spectacular orchids.

"The growers and orchid society contribute a great deal to the show with their depth of knowledge and expert advice, and the beautiful weather has brought people in their droves."

Plans are already under way for the fifth orchid show, next year, which organisers hope will be a huge celebration.