A RETIRED school caretaker has achieved an ambition by clinching an award for his skills as a gardener.

Louis Neasham, from Richmond, decided two years ago that he wanted to take the overall top spot in the town council's annual competition.

And, after a concerted effort which has involved hours of patient weeding and careful thought over the choice of plants, he has been able to take a few days well-earned rest in the garden judged the best in 2002.

He said yesterday: "I think it was the sweet peas which helped to clinch it.

"Last year, the colours might have been a little garish so I planted some others which have flowers with pastel shades; the judges seemed to like them.''

Mr Neasham, 73, said he had always been a "dabbler" in the garden but his interest grew when he retired as caretaker at Richmond Primary School eight years ago.

Since then, more frequent spells in the garden have been punctuated by games of golf at the local course.

He said: "I'm most proud of the pagoda at the bottom of the lawn. I put it in as it gave us a little more privacy and then planted honeysuckle and roses for their scent.

"However, the sweep peas mean people passing by still have a view of the garden, while adding a bit more colour."

Mr Neasham's overall victory means he claims the Pattison Trophy as well as gardening vouchers.

The best pub was judged to be the King's Head on Richmond Market Place. Nun's Cottage Bed and Breakfast was the best commercial premises, John Byrne of Frenchgate won the large garden category, while Mr James of Richmond Caravan Park was the winner of the small garden class.