RESIDENTS have put some extra colour into their community by holding their own village in bloom contest.

More than 60 people entered the Coundon and Leeholme Community Partnership contest, which was judged at the weekend.

The competition was launched after funding from the Wear Valley District Council Single Regeneration Project allowed the partnership to buy and give away free hanging basket growing kits and plants.

Last Saturday, judges Peter Stobbs and John Woods had the difficult task of deciding who had the best blooms hanging outside their front doors.

Four prizes were on offer, but Peter White, who lives in Leeholme Road, clinched the title and first prize of £75.

Mr White, 68, said: "I always buy hanging baskets for the front of the house but I grow my own flowers for out the back.

"I didn't think I would win. I am surprised, but pleased."

Partnership member Avril Hamilton said that the competition had received overwhelming support from the community.

"It has encouraged people to start putting hanging baskets out again and has brought a bit of colour back into the community," she said.