A Chester-le-Street charity worker has won a national award.

Audrey Lines has been picked from hundreds of volunteers as Branch Member of the Year for 2002 by Epilepsy Action.

The award was made in recognition of her commitment to the work of the Durham and District branch, which she helped to set up in 1978.

Mrs Lines has been secretary, chairperson and treasurer. She has also represented Epilepsy Action at many meetings and campaigned to improve epilepsy services throughout County Durham.

Most recently, Mrs Lines was instrumental in helping stage a major conference for people with epilepsy and their families at County Hall in Durham.

The association's regional services manager Sue Blake said: "Having the appropriate advice and information empowers people to take better control of their condition, its treatment and its implications upon their lifestyles, and we know from the feedback from the Durham conference that it was a highly successful project.

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to show Epilepsy Action's appreciation of all Audrey's hard work."

The Durham & District Branch of Epilepsy Action meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 7.30pm at The Parish Centre, Church Chare, Chester-le-Street.