HOUSE prices are continuing to rise in the region, according to a recent survey by Northern Rock.

The Houseprice survey, conducted by the company on a monthly basis, has revealed that the average price for a four-bedroom detached property in the region is £128,550.

The housing market in Durham has had a steady growth. Prices for two-bedroom houses in the area have increased by five per cent, the highest annual rise for Durham.

North Yorkshire has retained the top slot in the region for the highest overall average price house at £82,050 despite its growth being the second lowest in the region.

A spokesperson for CW Clubley estate agents in York said: "Demand has decreased over the past two months. This, linked with an increase in supply, is resulting in properties remaining on the market longer, causing a stagnation of the prices more so in the detached market."

The survey found that the housing market in Teesside remained strong with a quarterly growth of 2.3 per cent, slightly higher than the national average of 2.1 per cent.

The average price of a house in the area is £63,900, showing a £1,450 increase.

Northern Rock's chief valuer, Alistair Laws, said: "The housing marker throughout the region remains strong, although it is again characterised by a continuing shortage of supply.

"As is usual at this time of the year, many buyers are actively stepping up the pace of their property search in order to secure a suitable property before Christmas and this is contributing to the buoyant market conditions."