DIVERS who worked for seven years to revive the fortunes of their sub-aqua group have been awarded one of their sport's top accolades.

Bishop Auckland Sub-Aqua Club has received the Heinke Trophy by the British Sub Aqua Club.

With the honour comes a £1,000 cheque and the chance to host the annual meeting next summer.

The group was formed in 1968 and has 65 members who dive mainly along the North-East coast and off the Farne Islands.

They raise funds to support their activities and have paid for two new high capacity compressors for £16,000 and two dive boats, costing £13,000, which were stolen in April. These have been replaced with a six metre craft.

Award judges commended the club for keeping its subscription fee at £50, running diving and skills courses, holding social events, recording more than 1,200 dives and for member Neil Taylor's achievement in qualifying as a First Class Diver.

General secretary Mark Knox said: "We are the first club in the North-East to receive the award. It is recognition for seven years of hard work transforming the club, as membership and equipment levels had deteriorated dramatically."

Meetings are on Mondays from 7.30 to 8.30pm at Woodhouse Close pool and Bishop Auckland Rugby Club, from 9pm. Further details are available from the club's Internet website at www.BishopAucklandSubAquaClub.co.uk.