STAR parents, grandparents and carers in Derwentside had their outstanding work recognised at an awards ceremony on Friday.

The Derwentside Achievement and Volunteer Awards - also known as the Star Awards - recognise the contributions made by people in the community and in childcare.

Honours were presented in ten categories, including best parent or carer, best grandparent and best lifelong learner.

Other awards recognised volunteers who help individuals or community groups, are committed to improving children's language skills and people who try to live healthily.

Derwentside Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) and Sure Start children's centres in Derwentside were behind the annual event, which is in its second year.

The awards were presented by Durham County Council chairwoman Edna Hunter, councillor for Tanfield, in Stanley Central Club and Institute, Clifford Road, Stanley.

Derwentside CVS chief officer Janice Docherty said: "This is a night to celebrate the achievement of adult learning, volunteers and Sure Start parents throughout the district, many of whom have had to overcome personal barriers to attain success, and we congratulate them all."

Family support worker Linda Frazer, of Stanley Sure Start Children's Centre, said: "This is a good way to celebrate the good work of mams, dads, carers and parents-to-be, and to recognise the commitment they have shown in raising their children."