The Northern Echo: It has been my privilege to be involved in some special events during my time as a newspaper editor - and tonight was one I won't forget.

There are lots of words which spring to mind about the climax of the 1,245 Sunflowers project in Stockton: inspirational, moving, upsetting, beautiful, powerful.

1,245 sunflowers were grown by local people in honour of 1,245 men from the Stockton area who gave their lives in the Great War.

Tonight, the flowers - and the community - came together in a display of unity and remembrance.

Music, readings, tears, smiles and lots of flowers. Well done to everyone involved in arranging such an unforgettable event - not least Mike McGrother who worked til he dropped to make it happen.

Stockton - you did the 1,245 proud.