GREEN fingered schoolboy Jack Radcliffe has reached new heights in a gardening competition with his grandma.

In April this year, Jack, aged five, and his nan Kathleen Beech decided to have a contest to see who could grow the biggest sunflower in her garden at Wealdstone Grove, Tonge Moor.

Two packets of seeds were planted and while Kath's failed to pop their heads above ground, one of Jack's romped ahead and finally flowered a few days ago - at an amazing 11ft tall.

The giant sunflower is the pride and joy of Castle Hill Primary pupil Jack - and the talk of the neighbourhood.

"He watered it every other day and kept the weeds away. He really has looked after it," said Mrs Beech.

"All the little kids are amazed."

Jack, of Thicketford Road, Tonge Moor, visits his nan's house daily. He helps her to keep the garden neat and tidy and to plant up containers with flowers.

"It is a good way of teaching children how to keep things nice," said Mrs Beech.

To encourage Jack when they planted the sunflower seeds, she put up a 50p prize for the one who grew the biggest flower.

"He has won his 50p now and says he is going to buy a toy with it," said Mrs Beech.

Mrs Beech and her grandson are now planning to save the seed from their monster sunflower and see if they can repeat the feat next year.