THREE councillors are supporting Durham City’s bid to win a prestigious horticultural prize by funding a wildflower meadow.

Amanda Hopgood, Mamie Simmons and Mark Wilkes, all Liberal Democrat county councillors for Framwellgate Moor and Newton Hall, put about £500 to tidying up the nature area, in Newton Hall, Durham City.

Edges have been cleared and flowers planted.

Cllr Hopgood said: “We wanted to make sure that this area looked really great.

“So many people walk along the paths between Framwellgate Moor and Newton Hall and the flower display looks fantastic.”

It is hoped the investment will help bring Durham City success in the Large Town category in this year’s Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom Awards, where it is representing Northumbria.

Cllr Simmons said: “We hope that Durham City wins an award in the competition this year and are happy to have contributed towards that goal.

“We would recommend everyone takes a walk through the area from Bek Road traffic lights down towards Aykley Heads.”

Cllr Wilkes said: “Each year we try to do as much as possible to make the area look great.

“It’s also great for wildlife and actually saves money by reducing the need to cut grass. I hope everyone gets behind the bid.”

For further information on Britain in Bloom, visit rhs.org.uk