A PIONEERING scheme which helps people in Hartlepool with learning difficulties into employment has received a top national honour.

The Employment Link Service, at the Warren Road Day Centre, has been named Social Services Team of the Year by the Local Government Chronicle, a leading Government magazine.

Actor Richard Wilson presented the team with the award during a ceremony at London's Hilton Hotel.

The Employment Link Service provides support and advice to more than 300 people with disabilities.

People are given encouragement, confidence and the skills to help them into work.

The 20 staff are from both Hartlepool Borough Council and Tees and North Yorkshire NHS Trust.

Councillor David Young, chairman of the council's social services board, said: "The Employment Link Team has a reputation for providing a first class service and being named Social Service Team of the Year is a tremendous accolade."