A PRIZEWINNING fuchsia will not be going to a show this year, because it is too big to fit in a van.

Ray O'Brien, president of Durham and Northumberland Fuchsia Society, grew the plant from a cutting 19 years ago and has been taking it to the club's show for 17 years. He said: "It has won its class every year, but this year it's just too big to go. Archibalds used to sponsor me and take it in their removal van, but it won't even fit in there now.

The fuchsia, which is 7ft tall and 5ft wide, is one of the largest in the region.

Mr O'Brien recently moved to Aspen Close, in Durham City, but his garden does not have enough cover for the plant.

"I'm looking for a foster home for it for next year, possibly a garden centre."

The Durham and Northumberland Fuchsia Society show will take place in Spennymoor Leisure Centre, from 1-5pm on September 1, and from 10am to 4.30pm on September 2