FLOWER power finally won the day for a couple told to take down hayracks of bedding plants from the wall of their converted barn.

Selby Council conservation officers said the flower displays at the Grade II Listed Building were too much like the "domestic trappings of a suburban housing estate".

They said the hayracks could damage the character of the building and recommended that enforcement action be taken to remove them.

But following a site visit to the home of John and Maggie Briggs, at Walden Stubbs, near Whitley Bridge, councillors overturned their officers' recommendation and said the hayracks could stay.

Coun Maurice Patrick said each application should be considered on its merits, and he could see no problem with the hayracks.

Coun Wally Norton agreed, saying he felt the flower displays alleviated an otherwise blank wall.

Semi-retired teacher Mr Briggs, 55, and his wife Maggie, a prison officer, said they were delighted that common sense had prevailed.

Mr Briggs said: "Being out in the country we thought hayracks were more in keeping than hanging baskets. We're just pleased all this unnecessary hassle is over."

Updated: 08:46 Monday, September 10, 2001