LONG serving members of Easington District Council have had their dedication officially recognised.

Seven district councillors were presented with awards for ten years service with the council. The group included:

* Coun Geraldine Bleasdale, who represents Seaham Harbour and is also vice-chairwoman of the audit committee and the North Area Forum.

* Coun Rob Crute, member for the Blackhall ward who is executive member for regeneration and is a member for the Coastal Area Forum as well as a representative on the Coalfield Community Campaign, East Durham Groundwork Trust and Durham Coast Rail Line steering group.

* Coun Joan Freak, Wingate ward member who serves as an executive member for social inclusion and culture and the West Area Forum.

* Coun Ralph Liddle, member for Acre Rigg who also sits on the Central Area Forum and Central Management Board as well as the employee welfare and development control and regulatory panels.

* Coun Joyce Maitland, for Murton East, who is chairwoman of the North Area Forum and sits on the North Area Management Board and development control and regulatory panel and represents Durham Valuation Tribunal and the Coalfield Community Campaign.

* Coun Paul Stradling, member for the Coastal Area Management Board as well as serving as a councillor for Durham County Council.

*Coun Greg Wharrier, who represents Thornley and Wheatley and is a member of the partnerships scrutiny and standards committees as well as sitting on the West Area Forum and West Area Management Board.