FOUR gardeners at Darlington's revamped South Park are celebrating after notching up more than 90 years of service between them.

Peter Watson, Steve Robson, Peter Hansom and David Coakes are based in the town's oldest park, which is presently undergoing a £3.9m Lottery-funded transformation.

As well as tending the flowers and trees, the team looks after football pitches, the showfield and the park's animals.

Mr Watson has chalked up 38 years service, Mr Robson 27 years, Mr Hansom 25 years and Mr Coakes two years.

Councillor Lee Vasey, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for leisure services, said: "The team of gardeners do a really good job and it is amazing that between them they have put in more than 90 years work to keep South Park looking its best.

"This is an exciting time for the park and it is good to know that when all the work is done, the park will be in such safe hands."