AN award-winning leek was due to be presented to Prince Charles during his visit to Tynedale last week.

But 10-year-old Sarah Nicholson had other ideas.

The Hexham Priory School pupil took a liking to the leek, and decided it would be better for everyone if she kept it for herself.

The leek, which was grown by Raymond Ray of Falstone, won first prize at Kielder leek show earlier this month.

It was given to the school so that the children could present it to the Prince of Wales, who met the children at Kirkharle.

Fortunately, the prince saw the funny side, and Sarah got to keep her leek.

Sarah Nixon, who teaches at Hexham Priory School, said: “Ray brought it because he thought it would be nice for the children to give to the prince. It was absolutely priceless.”