For too long, neighbours from hell have been the ones attracting publicity for blighting the lives of decent folk.

But today, The Northern Echo launches a search for the region's best neighbours - those who bring joy to other people in their communities.

This week, the Government announced yet another initiative to give councils the power to crack down on troublemakers.

But while local authorities are seeking Asbos (Anti-Social Behaviour Orders) we will be handing out the reverse - Obsas (Outstanding Behaviour Special Awards).

The Neighbours from Heaven award will turn the spotlight onto those whose good deeds often go unnoticed and without publicity.

It could be a youngster who goes on weekly shopping trips or errands for an elderly neighbour, or someone living in a sheltered housing complex who cooks and cleans for fellow residents.

The overall winner will collect a prize while every one of those nominated will receive a framed Osba certificate.

To nominate a neighbour, simply fill in the form on this page and send it to: Neighbours from Heaven, Newsdesk, The Northern Echo, Priestgate, Darlington DL1 1NF.

The region's best neighbour, and the person who nominates the winner, will share prizes worth up to £1,500. Details will be announced later this week.

Police chiefs and civic leaders last night welcomed the launch of the crusade.

Paul Garvin, chief constable of Durham Police, said: "Good neighbours are priceless and at times we all rely on other people for help and support.

"We in Durham Police repeatedly ask members of the public to do the neighbourly thing and keep an eye out for others to collectively protect ourselves from the threat posed by criminals and others who disrupt the lives of the law-abiding majority."

Middlesbrough mayor Ray Mallon, a champion of zero-tolerance policing and advocate of anti-social behaviour orders, also backed the campaign.

The former detective said: "For every bad neighbour, there are 100 good ones, and this initiative to recognise good neighbours is one I would throw my weight behind."

The mayor of Hartlepool, Stuart Drummond, added: "Good neighbours make the world of difference to the area where we live and it's great to recognise their achievements."

Cleveland Police chief constable Sean Price said: "It is great to recognise that neighbours from hell are in the tiny minority.

"The vast majority of our people are good neighbours who go out of their way to make communities nicer places to live."

Councillor Bill Dixon, cabinet member for community and public protection with Darlington Borough Council, added: "I am sure there are thousands of good neighbours throughout Darlington who respect other people's property and their right to peace and quiet.

"We have a great community spirit so it is good that this initiative will recognise the public-spiritedness of these people."

Darlington MP Alan Milburn, who is in charge of the Government's election planning, also backed The Northern Echo's initiative.

He said: "While it is important to ensure that bad neighbours are dealt with appropriately, we must never forget that there are so many more good neighbours helping to make communities better places to live, and it is absolutely right that they are recognised."