THREE local authorities in the North-East have been awarded maximum ratings by the body set up to inspect social services care.

Newcastle and Sunderland maintained their three-star "excellent" rating from last year, while Gateshead also improved to a three-star rating, the Commission for Social Care Inspection said.

Darlington, South Tyneside and Redcar and Cleveland councils improved their ratings from one to two stars.

Among other local authorities, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough got two stars.

The commission said the North-East was one of only three regions in England not have to a zero-starred local authority - the worst rating.

Its regional director, John Fraser, said: "Overall, this year's star ratings represent an outstanding achievement for councils in the North- East.

"Over recent years, they have shown great energy and commitment in modernising and improving their services."

The best-performing councils are given more freedom in the way they use centrally-provided grant funds, and have a reduced programme of inspection and monitoring.

Council with zero stars receive additional support, have to return fuller information, and are subject to more frequent monitoring.

* Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for children's social services, said: "This rating recognises the hard work and effort of all those involved in developing social services provision in the borough."