THE first signs of spring provided the inspiration for a crafts contest at a nursing home.

Church View Residential Care Home, in South Church, near Bishop Auckland held an Easter activities session yesterday, when residents decorated Easter bonnets and eggs as part of an arts and crafts competition.

It is nearly two years since the home was flooded. The River Gaunless invaded the building when it broke its banks in June 2000.

After renovation work, residents eventually returned to their newly decorated premises six months later.