MIDDLESBROUGH'S successful street wardens service has received the government's seal of approval.

Town mayor Ray Mallon presented the team with the Quality Standard Award - a benchmark of approved service to the community.

An independent assessment of the scheme was carried out into the way the project works.

Mr Mallon said: "It's important that everyone is assured of the quality of our warden scheme and this award confirms it as a national leader.

"This is down to the hard work and commitment of all the staff."

Warden service manager Bill Thompson was presented with the award yesterday at the street wardens' headquarters, in Canon Park.