A BUSINESSMAN whose company won a national award two weeks ago for its work on the Duchess of Northumberland's famous garden has died at the age of 64.

Trevor Atkinson ran his family landscaping firm from his home at Mickleton, near Barnard Castle, County Durham, and carried out projects all over the North-East.

He had been ill for some time but kept quiet about it, so his death came as a shock to many friends and business people in Teesdale, especially so soon after publicity about the award.

A plaque was presented to the company by the British Association of Landscape Industries for what was described as outstanding work on the Duchess's spectacular scheme at Alnwick Castle.

Mr Atkinson, who founded the firm 30 years ago, told The Northern Echo at the time that he was immensely proud of the award.

But he declined to be photographed holding the plaque as his son Richard was in charge of the project at Alnwick.

Richard said yesterday: "My father was really pleased to get the award, which showed that his firm's efforts were appreciated. It is sad that he died so shortly afterwards."

In Alnwick, the firm planted 30,000 shrubs and 40,000 beech trees as well as 900 mature carpinus trees, 2,000 yews and red sentinals.

It also laid three acres of turf, put down 3,000 metres of gravel paths and installed water supplies to planting areas.

The award was in a category for large schemes covering more than a hectare. The first phase was opened by Prince Charles in September last year.

Mr Atkinson also leaves his wife Mary, other son Andrew and daughter Elaine. The funeral service will be at Romaldkirk Parish Church on Friday at noon.