A council has signalled its commitment to training its councillors by signing the North-East Regional Charter for Elected Member Development.

Chester-le-Street District Council is the first to sign up to the charter, which has been developed by the North-East Regional Employers' Organisation (Nereo) in partnership with the improvement and development agency.

The charter was signed by council leader Councillor Linda Ebbatson and chief executive Roy Templeman.

District council organisational development head Alison Swinney said: "The council's officers are equally supportive of staff and members, and this charter further strengthens the council's position to improve itself."

Coun Ebbatson said: "Member development brings benefits to a council and its staff.

"More importantly, better informed councillors mean better quality representation for their communities."

Nereo provides support to authorities in the region which commit to the charter by offering workshops and providing materials.