A TEACHER will be among those trying to keep up the area's incredible record at the National Teaching Awards this year.

Norma Machell, from Scarcroft Primary, in York, took the prize for the best primary teacher in 1999, with Cathy Roberts, of Harrogate's St Aidan's School, following in her footsteps in the secondary schools category last year.

This year, Alison Metcalfe, from Sutton-on-the-Forest Primary, north of York, has already qualified for the regional finals, and discovers how she has fared at a ceremony in Sheffield on Wednesday. A mother of two children, Mrs Metcalfe, who lives in Harome, near Helmsley, has been a teacher for 25 years.

She was nominated for the award by parents, who were supported by governors and fellow staff.

"She commands great respect with parents and the children absolutely adore her because she is so friendly, warm and open," said headteacher Sue Ratcliffe.

"She a great member of staff because she gives more than 100 per cent. She is the kind of person you want in a school."