A PUB that created an oasis full of exotic birds and vivid blooms beside a busy city road has earned an award.

The Queen's Head, on the corner of Sherburn Road and Gilesgate, in Durham, looks unassuming enough from the front.

But hidden away at the back is a gem of a garden, which has just earned the drinking hole the title of best kept pub grounds in the Beautiful Durham Competition.

The garden is a labour of love for landlady Linda Gibson, who said: "I had the Durham Light Infantry pub over the road for 15 years, but I didn't know this pub had a garden until I came here three-and-a-half-years ago.

"This is something I've always wanted. I really love the garden, but for next year's competition I think I'll really go for it."

The garden boasts a waterfall, drinking area for adults, barbecue, hanging baskets and tubs, and a large aviary, which is home to quails, parrots, finches and an array of other exotic birds.

Just to water the many hanging baskets takes three hours a day.

Pub regular Jonny Weirs spends hours a week helping to maintain the garden for free.

The contest is run by Durham City Council to encourage more floral displays and environmental work throughout the city.