DURHAM County Council's new-style old people's homes have won a second award - this time from surveyors.

The network of 'extra care' developments won gold in the community benefit category at the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors Northern Region Renaissance Awards.

Southfield Lodge at Crook, the first of the eight homes, last year won the older people category in the NHS Health and Social Care Awards.

The council's decision to demolish most of its traditional old people's homes proved controversial and attracted legal challenges from the relatives of some residents.

But the council says the new homes, built with Hanover Housing Association, provide accommodation to enable pensioners to live independently but with care at hand.

The developments, of self-contained flats, offer 24-hour personal support and provide security and companionship but give residents the option of keeping their privacy.

Coun Christine Smith, cabinet member for social care and health, said: "These awards confirm we are on the right track with our extra care schemes."

The other homes are at Ouston, near Chester-le-Street, and at Consett, Brandon and Durham City.