AN Australian who moved to the region has been shown that good neighbours really can become good friends.

Anita Blair moved in next door to Joan and John Gair, in Neil Crescent, Quarrington Hill, Durham nearly three years ago.

She moved from Melbourne, home of the Aussie soap Neighbours, with her four-year-old son, Brendan.

Since then Mrs Gair, 69, and her husband have always looked out for the Inland Revenue advisor and her family.

Mrs Blair, 30, said: "She has been like a mother to me and I call her my second mam.

"Joan is so kind and caring. She is brilliant. I'll never move from here unless she comes with me. She is the ideal neighbour."

Mrs Gair put up Mrs Blair's family when they visited for her wedding to husband Paul earlier this year and helped organise the wedding. She bakes cakes and pies for the family while Mr Gair walks their dog and does DIY jobs for them.

Mrs Gair said: "They are nice people and have gone out of their way to be nice to us.

"It comes naturally and it is not unusual for me. I like to give. I feel a little bit embarrassed, but it is nice someone has thought of the little things that you do. It is nice to be appreciated."

Because of her kindness, Mrs Blair has nominated Mr and Mrs Gair for The Northern Echo Neighbours From Heaven competition.

For being entered into the competition, Mr and Mrs Gair are in with a chance of winning the grand prize - a £1,500 holiday, courtesy of The Cruise Store. If they win, Mrs Blair will receive £250 in holiday vouchers.

To nominate someone for an Obsa (Outstanding Behaviour Special Award) - the opposite to an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo) - send your entry to: Neighbours From Heaven, Newsdesk, The Northern Echo, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF.