The 71-year-old was told by friends and family to enter in this year's Gazette's Glorious Gardens competition, and Mr James feels his little haven has got what it takes to win.

Mr James, who lives with partner Marion Vacher, in Sunderland Road, South Shields, is relishing the extra spare time he has since returning from Canada as a steel worker.

Mr James said: "When people see my garden, they think I spend all my time working on it, but that's not true.

"I actually spend all my time relaxing in it instead, because if you keep on top of the little things, it's not hard work at all.

"I have a little look every day to make sure everything's all right, and if I see a weed, I pull it straight out. I cut the lawn at least once a week, but always aim to do it twice.

"Gardening is my hobby, and I'm extremely passionate about it."

His cosy garden includes a pond, wooden decking, a small bridge and a colourful array of different plants and decorations.

He added: "I'd say the best part about my garden is the different colours – there is every colour you could imagine.

"I've got rare plants which no one else has. I've hardly got any room left for new ones now. It's like a jungle."

Although he's already got three sheds, he says he'll find a way to make the new one fit if he wins the top prize.