NEWCASTLE'S STREETS ARE BLOOMIN' MARVELLOUS, SAY JUDGES

Newcastle has won a regional award for its floral displays.

Northumbria in Bloom awarded Newcastle a gold medal for the best floral displays in a large city.

Judges singled out the street flower boxes and hanging basket displays around Central Station, the statue of Cardinal Basil Hume, the Monument, Saint Thomas' Church and at the Civic Centre for special praise.

Councillor Joanne Park said: "I am delighted the council's staff have been recognised for the excellent job they do.

"Simple things like floral displays makes a real difference on making people feel proud of Newcastle. I know local people really enjoy the displays as well."