NINE schools have been congratulated by their MP after winning plaudits under a national assessment scheme.

The schools in the Vale of York have each been awarded the Basic Skills Primary Quality Mark.

The award acknowledges those schools that meet the minimum standards in the teaching of numeracy and literacy.

Local Tory MP Anne McIntosh said: "I am delighted that the hard work, skill, and dedication of staff in primary schools throughout North Yorkshire have been acknowledged by this prestigious award.

"The Quality Mark considers a range of criteria, including whole-school strategy, reviewing pupil performance, and involvement of parents in the development of children's basic skills, and it is a sign of educational excellence that so many of North Yorkshire's schools have received this award."

The primary schools involved are: Thirsk Community; South Kilvington CE; Topcliffe CE; Alne Primary; Snape Community; Roecliffe CE; Long Marston CE; Staveley Community and Dishforth Airfield Community School.