A RECORD number of entries has been received for a competition that aims to recognise the efforts of people looking after the local environment.

Council officials in Hartlepool have received 67 nominations for the Pride in Your Neighbourhood Awards, whichoperates as part of the Pride in Hartlepool campaign.

The figure represents a big increase on the previous best, 43 nominations received last year.

The judging is now under way and awards in ten categories will be presented at a ceremony in the Civic Centre, on November 23.

Keeley Metcalfe, the council's community environmental action officer, said she was particularly pleased that 12 groups had been nominated for an award in the environmentally-active community group category.

She said: "I am delighted that there has been such a high level of interest.

"The fact that we have received a record number of entries reflects the amount and quality of work that is being carried out by people in their own time across the town."

Mayor Stuart Drummond said: "We all have a role to play in making sure Hartlepool continues to be a town to be proud of and the community spirit displayed by these groups is to be applauded."