VILLAGE gardeners across Teesdale are poised to battle for the honours in annual shows at the weekend.

Organisers of the Cotherstone Flower and Vegetable Show, being held in the village, near Barnard Castle, tomorrow, have received 487 entries from 60 local people.

The event is expected to draw hundreds of visitors.

The show has a number of sections, including flower arranging, vegetables, homemade produce, photography, handicraft and an event for children.

All entries have to be received by 11am tomorrow. The winners will be announced and the exhibits opened for public viewing at 2pm.

Organiser John Outhwaite said the event was always fiercely contested and attracted plenty of visitors.

He said: "This is a fantastic village event and nearly all the residents try to support it in one way or another. It is held in the village hall and proceeds will go towards helping to maintain the hall. There have been plenty of entries and I'm sure there will be plenty of people hoping they come away with a prize."

Competition is also expected to be tough in the Gainford Horticultural Show, tomorrow, in the village school and Scout headquarters.

As well as the show, the event will include plant stalls, teas and children's entertainment.

The doors will open at 2.30pm, when the public can view the exhibits and the list of prize-winning entries will be announced.