PUBLICAN Malcolm Nixon is getting a taste for success after winning first place for the second year running in a town's floral contest.

Mr Nixon picked up the title for best business premises with his fantastic floral displays in the beer garden at the rear of The Cricketers Arms, in Barnard Castle. The landlord, had picked up the same prize last year from Barnard Castle Town Council.

The judges were clearly impressed with the displays which included violas, petunias, gladioli, dahlias, Livingstone daisies and fuchsias.

Mr Nixon, who will be hoping to make it three in a row next year, said that although he does all the planting himself he does get a little help from his father.

He said: "It's great to win again.

"I have entered twice and won twice.

"But I do get help from my father Joe, and he tells me what to do and what I'm doing wrong.