FIVE members of a Darlington bank are celebrating after winning awards for their hard work and dedication.

Mike Sowerby, branch manager at Abbey, on High Row, beat off competition from about 130 others to be named manager of the year 2004 at a Midlands Division recognition event.

Four other members of staff attended an awards ceremony for the Middlesbrough, York and Durham areas last month and also came home with accolades.

Alli McPhee was named top mortgage advisor, Mary Turnbull assistant branch manager of the year, Karen Whitehouse customer manager of the year and Susan Stephenson customer advisor of the year.

Mr Sowerby said: "I'm absolutely delighted for all the staff - those four women are fantastic with our customers.

"I was extremely surprised and flattered to pick up my award - again it was recognition for the whole team."