A PIONEERING heart service is officially among the best in the country after winning high praise in a national award scheme.

The community cardiac rehabilitation programme launched by Darlington Primary Care Trust (PCT) in October 2001 was one of the first of its kind in the country and since then, has helped almost 300 people with angina.

It has now been ranked in the top three after competing against 49 schemes in the Health and Social Care Awards.

Trust officials travelled to London for the judging of the Department of Health competition, hosted by former England footballer Gary Lineker and Health Secretary John Reid.

Judges said the scheme was dynamic, motivated and innovative, highly developed and a quality service.

PCT chairman Sandra Pollard said: "I was really proud that our team was among the finalists in this most prestigious award.

"It was well-deserved after all the hard work that everyone had put into the scheme, the benefits of which have been considerable."

More than 10,000 people in Darlington have coronary heart disease.

So far, 286 patients have benefited from the community cardiac rehabilitation programme, which places them on an angina plan.

This is designed to improve quality of life by helping patients physically and mentally.

It aims to answer their questions, reduce the symptoms and prevent more serious problems occurring.

It comprises a written plan, audio relaxation tapes and help from a nurse.

They take part in sessions twice a week for eight weeks at Eastbourne Leisure complex, followed by a review, or a 12-week long programme in their homes.