CHESTER-le Street District Council is celebrating after the magazine it produces won a national award.

District News is the first winner of the Northcliffe Press Awards prize for community involvement.

The magazine, which is produced four times a year and delivered to all households in the area, was praised because it includes many stories about local organisations outside the council.

More than 200 public bodies entered the awards, which were launched this year.

Council leader Malcolm Pratt said he was delighted with the award. He said: "The stated aim of the magazine is to increase the effectiveness of the District News by involving the readership in community planning and information issues. A recent random survey of residents' views showed that District News was appreciated by people in Chester-le-Street who wanted to see even more community interest in it.

"Winning this award shows that the magazine is also recognised by media professionals as the best of its kind.''

The award was collected by public relations officer Anne Taylor, who has since moved to Blackburn with Darwen Council, and graphic design and communications assistant Eduardo Alegria.

Strategy manager John Banham said of Ms Taylor's efforts: "She has set us high standards to maintain and the council is keen to respond to the challenge of making the magazine even more relevant to our communities' interests.''