A MARKS and Spencer employee from the region has been rewarded for 25 years' service in a ceremony at the company's London headquarters.

Ann Sill, who works in the Darlington branch of the store chain, was presented with a diamond eternity ring by Marks and Spencer chairman Luc Vandevelde and other members of the board.

Mrs Sill, who began working with the company in its Cambridge store, and her husband, Christopher, were then treated to a champagne reception and night at a West End show.

She said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed working at Marks and Spencer and have built up many valuable friendships over the years."