A RETIRED school caretaker has achieved a personal ambition by clinching an award for his gardening.

Richmond's Louis Neasham decided two years ago he wanted to take the overall top spot in the town council's annual competition.

And, after a concerted effort that has involved hours of patient weeding and some careful thought over the choice of plants, he has been able to take a few days well-earned rest, enjoying the sun in the garden judged the best in 2002.

"I think it was the sweet peas which helped to clinch it," he said. "Last year, the colours might have been a little garish so I planted some others which have flowers with pastel shades; the judges seemed to like them."

Mr Neasham, 73, admits he had always been a dabbler in the garden but his interest grew when he retired as caretaker at Richmond Lower School eight years ago.

Mr Neasham's victory means he claims the Pattison Trophy this year as well as gardening vouchers.

In other categories the best pub was the King's Head on Richmond Market Place; Nun's Cottage Bed and Breakfast was the best commercial premises; John Byrne of Frenchgate won the large garden category, while Mr James of Richmond Caravan Park was the winner of the small garden class.