Visitors to Durham and Northumberland Fuchsia Society's annual show this weekend may be confused over the season when they see one of the floral creations on offer.

Ray O'Brien, a leading member of the society, decided to produce a winter fuchsia theme for recent shows.

He nurtured his favourite flowers to create the winter look in mid-summer in his garden in Gilesgate Moor, Durham, and then added a snow scene setting for good measure.

It was well received by visitors to the recent Gateshead Summer Flower Show and so he plans to repeat the exhibit at the society's show, at Spennymoor Leisure Centre, on Saturday and Sunday.

Mr O'Brien said: "It was a tongue in cheek thing, I suppose.

"I did a log cabin and sledge and added the artificial snow to complete the look.

"It went so well and attracted a lot of attention at the Gateshead show, so I thought I would do it again at Spennymoor this weekend."

Mr O'Brien's winter wonderland is one of many exhibits at the event, which features fuchsia classes, talks on fuchsia culture and a question and answer session with experts.

The show runs from 1pm until 5pm on Saturday and from 10am to 4.30pm on Sunday.

For details call Tony Lawson, on (01325) 466996.