THE owners of a Stokesley nursery have received a top trophy at a BBC gardening show.

Flowers grown by Helen and Mark Bainbridge, of Fir Trees Pelargonium Nursery, were judged the best in the flower marquee at BBC Gardening World Live.

The event was held at Birmingham NEC and the couple returned home with an impressive crystal bowl.

Mr Bainbridge grew up at Stokesley, while his wife is originally from Hull. They set up the nursery ten years ago and have since won numerous prizes at shows such as Hampton Court and Chelsea.

While exhibiting, they have met famous gardeners and broadcasters including Alan Titchmarsh and Peter Seabrook.

Mrs Bainbridge told the D&S Times: "We're really delighted with this success. Pelargoniums are gorgeous. They come in such a variety of shapes, colours and textures."

Speaking about the nursery, she said: "We've got just under an acre of glass and are probably one of the biggest specialists in the country. We just sell to the public and don't do any wholesale."

What was the secret of their success?

"Loads of hard work! The plants require a lot of feeding and potting. We have our own compost mix. They grow very big, which I think adds to the success."

She praised staff members Ele Martin, Jeanie Brown, Tracey Hemsley and Jemma Jackson for their dedication.

Her favourite variety was called Garden Director Hairman.

"It looks lovely, with white petals at the bottom and purple ones at the top."

After celebrating the latest success, she said preparations were starting for the forthcoming Hampton Court show.