A COUPLE renowned for giving away flowers and cuttings from their garden are to have a floral memorial.

Bob and Connie Johnson's family have paid for 400 crocus bulbs to be planted on the village green at Gainford, near Barnard Castle, to serve as a reminder of the generous couple every spring.

Mr and Mrs Johnson joined in many village activities until they died a few years ago - Connie at the age of 86 and Bob at 95.

Their daughters Prudence and Amy, son Stuart and nephew Jamie all agreed they should have a lasting memorial.

Prudence who lives in Cockerton Green, Darlington, said: "A lovely display of crocuses each spring will be a fitting memorial to them."

Mr Johnson was a chartered surveyor and civil engineer, who put down his long life to being a teetotaller and non-smoker - and to the love of a good wife.