THE battle of the leek trenches comes to a head at the weekend when growers from Darlington compete in the Champion of Champions show.

The lateness of this year's show should test the growing skills of hundreds of competitors from the working men's clubs in the town taking part in the inter-club show on Saturday.

The top five stands of pot and trench leeks will go through to the champions show the following day.

There are also classes for an intermediate leek and a trio of leeks, which organisers hope will be a great attraction.

The Northern Echo is the main sponsor of the show, supported by breweries which supply the Darlington clubs.

The champions' show will be held on Sunday at East End Working Men's Club, Bank Top, Darlington.

Doors open to the public from noon on Sunday. A presentation night will take place at the East End Club on October 12 from 7pm. Admission is free