AN orchid show marked its 20th anniversary at the weekend.

The event at Raby Castle, near Staindrop, on Sunday and Monday feature a fabulous display of orchids originating from around the world.

It was launched after Barnard Castle-based grower Richard Warren learnt the then Lord Barnard was interested in orchids.

At the same time, Dutch grower Jac Wubben visited Raby and felt it would be a great venue. The Darlington and District and North of England Orchid Societies were drafted in and the event became a hardy annual.

Treasurer of the Darlington society Chris Barker said: "The late Lord Barnard loved it, he always came round on the first morning. He'd ask 'where's my Dutchman?', he was very fond of Jac who is missing it for the first time. It remains a major North East event, for trade, exhibitors and hobbyists who come from Aberdeen to Oxford."