DURHAM has become the first city in the UK to be chosen twice as the host city for the Britain in Bloom National Awards presentation.
The city cathedral will be the venue for the millennium celebration awards evening and awards later this month.
Hosts Durham City Council has worked alongside Tidy Britain Group, the organisers of Britain in Bloom, to stage the competition on September 26 and 27.
The awards presentation was previously held in Durham in 1996, but Tidy Britain has set a precedent by returning to the same venue.
Councillor Dennis McMahon, chairman of the city council's community services, said: "We pulled out all the stops in 1996 to make it an extra-special occasion for Britain in Bloom, and we're delighted the organisers have decided to choose our city again."
Alan Woods, Tidy Britain Group chief executive, said: "This competition is all about communities getting together to improve and enhance their local environment for the benefit of everybody.
"Where better to celebrate this that in Durham - both a previous winner and host of Britain in Bloom."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article