A UNIVERSITY has received national recognition and praise from Cherie Blair for its efforts in reducing the pay gap between men and women.

Sunderland university's equal opportunities team was shortlisted at the annual awards of campaign group Opportunity Now, which the Prime Minister's wife is patron of.

In 2003, Sunderland was one of the first institutions in the country to carry out an equal pay audit, and its work in the area has been shared by Opportunity Now with organisations across the UK as an example of best practice.

The gender pay gap at Sunderland has been reduced by six per cent over two years.

The university was one of only two in the UK nominated for the awards.

Paul Andrew, from the university, said: "To be shortlisted for the award gives the university national recognition as an institution working towards best practice.

"It also provides us with momentum to continue to work towards fair and consistent pay."