ONE of The Northern Echo's sales executives has beaten competition from around the world to win a prestigious award.

Maria McMann, who works for Newsquest (North East), publishers of The Northern Echo, has been named Sales Executive of the Year for 2005 by our American parent company Gannett.

The 49-year-old, who is based at the company's Framwellgate Moor offices, near Durham City, was unable to attend the ceremony in Virginia, US, due to family commitments.

However, on learning the news, she said: "It is fairly unbelievable really, considering I was up against people across the United States. It just seems so incredible and it's a real honour."

For the past 11 years, Maria has been The Northern Echo's sales executive covering her home town of Chester-le-Street.

She has consistently surpassed every sales target she has been set.

David Kelly, managing director of Newsquest (North East), said: "We are delighted that Maria's remarkable professionalism has been recognised at the very highest level in our parent company. This is an outstanding accolade.

"She is devoted to her customers and her colleagues and is truly an inspiration to all of us."