A DISTRICT council's business support team in County Durham is through to the final stage in its bid to gain beacon status.

The team from Derwentside District Council presented their case to the Advisory Panel for Beacon Councils in London, on Thursday.

The aims of the business support team are to support the growth and competitiveness of existing companies, as well as encouraging business start-ups.

The district council's executive director, Mike Clark, said: "We've got a great track record in business support - both with the calibre of staff and the range of high quality, flexible accommodation throughout the district.

"It would be a real coup if we receive beacon status."

Successful authorities for beacon status will be announced in April.