THEY'RE coming up roses!

Gardeners of all ages from across the area have been honoured in North East Lincolnshire Council's Allotment Competition.

Prizes were handed out by the mayor of North East Lincolnshire, Councillor Norma Lincoln, and allotment officer Lesley Smith.

The Best Traditional Plot prize went to John Trevitt, 63, of Beacon Hill.

He said: "It's just absolutely fantastic to win. I couldn't have done it without the help and support from the people of Beacon Hill. It's the first time I've won it in four years of competing."

Stella Pearson, 45, of Brereton Avenue, won second place in the Best Traditional Plot category.

She said: "It feels absolutely marvellous to win second place. I spend a lot of time gardening and this is the first time I've won."

The newest category to be introduced in the competition was the Young Gardener Award, which went to Emma, 7, and Heidi Britteon, 4, of Cleethorpes.

They were presented with a trophy and two sunflower awards.

"It's really good and we're very proud," they said.

Ms Smith added: "All the allotments were of a particularly high standard. They really have worked hard."