Darlington and Sedgefield once again proved themselves unrivalled when the Northumbria in Bloom honours were awarded this week.

Darlington won the best small city award for the ninth time in a row and the 14th time overall and Sedgefield carried off the award for the best small country town for the 11th consecutive year.

Judges commented on the innovative floral designs both in Darlington town centre and on roundabouts as well as the spotless appearance of the town centre.

The overall opinion of the judges was that the town's entry was outstanding.

Darlington has previously won the national event, Britain in Bloom, in 1997 and also silver and bronze medals for past exhibitions at the Chelsea Flower Show.

The council's horticultural team produces millions of flowers for use both in town centre displays and local parks but also for distribution around the country.

Mayor Ron Lewis, who received the award, the Whitbread Trohpy, said: "Year after year, the displays in the town never cease to amaze me with their beauty and creativity. It is a credit to our team of gardeners who have ensured that even through what has been a remarkably hot and dry summer, the quality of the displays has been maintained.

"Thanks also must go to local residents and businesses for their input and hard work in ensuring our well deserved success."

Sedgefield Mayor Linda Maddison picked up the Whitworth Hall and Gardens Trophy at the awards ceremony in Hexham. The entry was organised by the Sedgefield in Bloom committee and the town council.

Judges praised the very impressive entry and said it was quite clear the high level of participation from villagers.

They also said it was a much-loved small country town. They gave a special mention for the village green and tubs displays and also the memorial garden and churches.

Bloom committee secretary Maxine Robinson said the town's entry had improved year on year with this year's being the best ever. She praised the support from volunteers and local school children and said much work had been done throughout the year to identify any possible weaknesses.

Heighington and Aycliffe Village won merit awards in the best large village category and Ferryhill won an award of merit in the small town section.