STAFF at a North-East charity shop have been recognised by a national award scheme.

All 14 workers at the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) shop in Peterlee, east Durham, were shortlisted for the charity's Nationwide Volunteer Award.

This week, they learnt they have been highly commended in the scheme - at the first time of trying.

The PDSA provides free veterinary care to pets from low-income families and its string of charity shops help raise funds for the animal care service.

Shop manager Susan Curry said the team was known as the Peterlee Angels.

She said: "They all work extremely hard and, although we would have liked to have won the top award, we are delighted at being highly commended."