IT may not have been the biggest, but organisers of this year's Northumbria in Bloom competition yesterday declared it the best.

The annual event recognises the best floral displays in towns, villages and cities throughout the North-East.

And yesterday, representatives from countless communities descended on the awards ceremony at the Oakwood Centre, in Eaglescliffe, Teesside.

Darlington once again did well, this year pipping Stockton to finish first in the best city category.

It was a good day for Ferryhill, which was declared the most improved entry and won an award of merit in the best small town section. There were also awards for Mainsforth Sports Centre and the Manor House pub.

Durham claimed the best large town prize.

Aycliffe Village was judged the best large village for the third year in a row, despite having much of its funding withdrawn by the town council.

Regular winner Sedgefield triumphed in the best small country town category for the 11th year in succession.

Simon Dale, Stockton Borough Council's head of direct services, said: "The organisers were particularly complimentary about the standard of entries.

"Year on year there is an increase in the quality, if not the volume.

"For the first time this year it was supported by the Royal Horticultural Society, so there was a greater emphasis on colour, bloom, imagination and innovations.

"Judges still wanted to see clean and tidy entries, but other things were more important."

Colin Greaves, general manager of Newcastle Building Society, which sponsored the competition, said: "We have been supporting Northumbria in Bloom since 1998 and we are proud to be involved again this year.

"Anything that creates a better environment for local residents, businesses and the many visitors that come to the region has to be applauded."