A GOVERNMENT watchdog has praised Gateshead Council in its latest annual audit.

Councillor John McElroy said: "It is very encouraging to get the positive and supportive response from the District Audit.

"In particular, attention is made in his report to the progress the council has made in modernising its political and management arrangements."

Coun McElroy said the report had praised Gateshead Council for implementing a community strategy.

In a report to the council, the District Audit said: "In another demanding year, the council has reacted well to a number of local government initiatives, as well as seeking to improve services."

The report also said: "More council services have been recognised as achieving high quality," and added: "Our overall conclusion is that you have responded well to your challenging agenda.