DRACULA is coming to a medieval castle, in the shape of an unusual orchid.

The rare bloom will be shown at the annual Raby Castle orchid show, near Staindrop, which this year takes place from May 3-5, 11am-5pm. Not only has it not been seen at Raby before, it has never been seen at any orchid show in the north.

The mysterious bloom is usually jet black, or a very deep red, something not normally seen in orchids. It was named because it looks like Dracula in his cloak.

The organisers are also delighted that Jack Wubben, one of Europe's leading orchid growers, has again chosen Raby as the only show he will exhibit at in the north this year. He will be transporting the Dracula variety, along with over 75 different species, from Holland.

Building on the success of last year, Raby is hoping to attract a large number of people to the bank holiday event.

Richard Warren, from Barnard Castle, an orchid expert and a member of the British Orchid Growers Association said: "This will be a fantastic display of orchids, especially with the added attraction of the spectacular and unique Dracula.

"Its lip mimics the shape of an inverted toadstool to aid in pollination, as the appearance attracts fungus flies."

Dr Warren said as well as showing some of the rare, highly exotic plants, the aim was to illustrate reliable types of orchid that people could grown on their window sills.

"We will have fabulous moth orchids - a lovely arching orchid with large white or pink petals that looks rather like a moth - and the famous dancing ladies with their so-called flared yellow skirts. These are derived from Oncidium from which a huge range of hybrids have been bred."

The usual midday lectures will take place on the Sunday and Monday, when experts will tell of their experiences and knowledge of orchids in tropical climes.

The organisers say orchids are fast becoming one of the country's favourite houseplants. However, many think they are difficult to grow. To address this issue and to help people learn more about their own orchids, the exhibitors are inviting visitors to take their plants for a free health check, which might include re-potting and splitting.

A charge of £3 for adults and concessions, and £2.50 for children, is made to enter Raby park and gardens, but this includes free admission to the show.