THOUSANDS of people will converge on one of the largest flower shows in the region at the weekend.

The Gateshead Spring Flower Show will be held at Gateshead Council's Central Nursery, Whickham Highway, Lobley Hill, Gateshead from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

With more than 140,000sq ft of marquee space, this year's show could be the biggest ever.

Organised by Gateshead Borough Council, the show has grown significantly in recent years and now regularly attracts more than 18,000 visitors over the two days.

This year all children under 18 will be admitted free. Adult tickets cost £5.50 and £4 for over-sixties.

The tented village will offer everything for the garden and more, including live entertainment, floral displays, children's entertainment and bouncy castles.

There is also a series of demonstrations providing hints on a range of topics including hanging baskets, sweet peas, leeks and vegetables.

All routes are signposted from the A1, on-site parking is available at £1 per car. Alternatively, a free park and ride will operate every 15 minutes from Gateshead Civic Centre and the MetroCentre coach park.

For further information, call the show office on 0191-460 1299