TOP allotment gardener, Derrick Cocker, knows all about digging for victory.

For 10 years on the trot he has lifted the coveted Prescott Trophy for the best kept plot in Wigan borough -- but has now decided to hang up his golden spade.

His Lilford garden has been judged tops for the last time by Metro parks experts because after a decade of continuous success he has decided to give others a chance.

Derrick, who was due to receive the trophy for the last time today, said: "It's been great and I've enjoyed every minute of it. But preparing for the competition has taken up a lot of my time and I've other things to do -- like relaxing and spending more time with the grandchildren!

"The competition has been very good for allotment gardening as it has driven up standards across the borough."

"Though I'm not entering next year I have no plans to give up the plot that keeps the family in fresh fruit and veg all year round. If it can be grown, then I'll grow it!"

Cllr Brian Baldwin, Wigan Council's Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture said: "Given the high standard of entries year after year, Derrick's domination of the award is quite remarkable. Leigh's gardeners are setting the standard for the borough and Derek has led the way."

Ian Lythgoe, also a Lilford gardener, took the runner-up spot, ahead of joint third trio-- David Smith (Plank Lane, Leigh), Terry Kelly and Jim Worden (both Lilford).

The competition is named after James Prescott, a keen Leigh gardener who gave the prize originally to Leigh Borough Council in 1956 to encourage people to look after their allotments and areas of greenery.