There is an increasing desire among members of the public for gardens to be "sensible", it has been claimed.

Garden designer Diarmuid Gavin tells the Evening Gazette that many gimmicks such as under-lawn lighting are no longer popular.

Instead, he argues that a return to gardens that serve the needs of their owners is on the cards.

"People want good, simple design - something that they were getting right in the 1950s," he tells the publication.

"People want gardens that are relevant to all members of the family," he adds - ranging from peaceful areas for adults to "asking the kids what they want".

Mr Gavin asserts that the past ten years have seen a flurry of off-the-wall garden designs, but that this is unlikely to persist in the future.

He previously said that winning a bronze award at the Chelsea Flower Show during his early career had caused excitement at home.

But while everybody thought he had come third in the show, Mr Gavin admitted that "you virtually get one for turning up".