ONE of the region's car dealers has given a boost to North-East flower power.

The Gateshead Spring Flower Show, one of the biggest events of its kind in the region, will take place over the Easter weekend, from Saturday to Monday, April 10 to 12.

Tyneside dealership Pearsons Mitsubishi, of Benton, has signed on as the event's main sponsor.

It means festival organiser Gateshead Council can this year provide more than 200,000sq ft of marquee, creating a tented village of floral displays and speciality foods.

There will also be a craft fair, live entertainment and children's activities.

Tony Armstrong, sales manager of Pearsons Mitsubishi, said: "We are delighted to support this family event, which is one of the biggest in the region.

Councillor John McElroy, of Gateshead Council, said: "This new collaboration enables us to attract visitors from both the local community and from throughout the region, who are able enjoy this spectacular horticultural event."

The Gateshead Spring Flower Show takes place at Gateshead Central Nursery, Whickham Highway on Easter weekend, from 10am to 5pm each day.

Admission is £6.50 for adults, £4.50 for the over-60s, while children under 18 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

There will be on-site car parking, and a free park-and- ride scheme operating from the MetroCentre car park.