A REGIONAL sculptor has given new meaning to splashing out on a bunch of roses for a loved one this St Valentine's Day.

The unique roses stand 6ft tall, have flower heads the size of footballs and are the sturdiest on the market - with a guarantee never to wilt.

They are designed and hand-crafted by metal sculptor Anthony Sturgess and are on display tomorrow at Fountains Abbey, near Ripon, North Yorkshire.

"They are a completely new type of rose, especially for this season, and I designed them myself," said Mr Sturgess.

"I used to be a chef in the south of France and I have based the design for the flowers on a tomato rose used to garnish a dish.

"The skin of the tomato is carefully peeled off and rolled to look like a rose. I made these giant flowers almost in the same way, by rolling sheets of stainless steel."

Couples will be able to purchase a smaller version of the special rose for a romantic evening in the grounds of the medieval Abbey ruins, on Friday. They will also be able to enjoy a candlelit meal for two in the Visitor Centre Restaurant - to book call (01765) 643196.

The larger flowers will later be on display and for sale at Harlow Carr Gardens, near Harrogate. For more information call Anthony Sturgess on (07939) 876618.