A TOWN has been rewarded for its efforts to reinvigorate its high streets.

Middlesbrough missed out on reaching the final of the Government-sponsored Great British High Street competition.

But the judging panel were so impressed by the strides made to improve the town centre that Middlesbrough was given a special ‘Rising Star’ award and £1,000 cash.

Middlesbrough Borough Council has offered retailers financial incentives to move into vacant units.

Meanwhile, the regeneration of the likes of Baker Street and Bedford Street has seen a number of new independent businesses open up.

Councillor Charlie Rooney, Deputy Mayor and executive member for regeneration, said: “A great mix of shops, restaurants and businesses is vital to any successful town and Middlesbrough has all three in abundance.

“We will continue to do all we can to make Middlesbrough one of the region’s shopping and leisure destinations and this Rising Star award will only increase our determination to win next year’s competition.”

The Great British High Street Competition is now in its second year. Winners in each of its seven categories get a share of a prize pot worth £80,000.