THERE were tears of joy when a classroom assistant from Darlington scooped a top award in the region's teaching Oscars yesterday.

The Teaching Award 2000 presentations, also known as the "Platos", which honour the region's top teachers, took place in Newcastle.

Denise Murray, of Beaumont Hill Special School, in Darlington, was named Classroom Assistant of the Year. She was described as "outstanding", with every aspect of her work "of the highest calibre".

Denise was thrilled with her achievement, as was her headteacher Della Smith and her pupils, who had accompanied her to the ceremony at the Civic Centre.

"I'm delighted, but none of it would have been possible without team work. I work with the best children, they are fantastic. It is so rewarding for me," said Denise.

One of her pupils, Matthew Smith, 15, said: "She's just a brilliant teacher. We are really proud of her."

The most prestigious honour of the day was bestowed on Tom Baker, a teacher at Red Rose Primary School, Chester-le-Street. He was awarded the Lloyds TSB Award for Lifetime Achievement.

The 55-year-old, who has taught in the area for 34 years, was described as an "exceptional mentor".

Tom, who was accompanied by his 21-year-old son Alan, said: "It came as a real surprise, but I was very happy to receive the award. Teachers just do their best and do their job. I love children and I love my job."

The award for Working with Parents and the Community was presented to Lynda Fox, of Grangefield School, Stockton. She received the award for setting up several arts projects.

Lynda said: "The support I have had from my colleagues has been fantastic, as well as the support from the pupils and everyone else who has been involved."

In North Yorkshire, winners of the awards included David Fox, of Giddleswick School, Settle, who won the lifetime achievement award; and Catherine Roberts, of St Aidan's Church of England High School, Harrogate, who received The Guardian Secondary Teacher of the Year award.

Each of the overall winners receives £3,500 for their schools. Those who were specially commended receive £500 for their schools.

The winners will now be considered for the national Teaching Awards 2000 presentations in October, when they could receive £20,000 for their schools