MEMBERS of a search and rescue team have received royal accolades for helping the region's emergency services.

To mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee, volunteers attached to the Teesdale and Weardale Search and Rescue team have been given commemorative medals in recognition of their work.

Members who have completed at least five years' service with the team are eligible for the award.

Steve Owers, a member of the Teesdale and Weardale Search and Rescue team, said: "The medal is awarded to those who are called upon to attend emergencies and who are potentially placing themselves in danger.

"This is an historic occasion as it is the first time that members of the Mountain and Cave Rescue Service have been recognised alongside the police, fire, ambulance and Maritime Emergency Service for such an award for the service they provide to their local communities."

A medal was awarded posthumously to Stan White, the long-serving team secretary who died last year. The award was accepted on behalf of Mr White by his wife, Lyn.

Lord Barnard, the team president, presented medals to: Alan Best, David Clark, David Bartles-Smith, Neil Banner, Paul Brassington, Carl Forster, Paul Hodgkinson, Stephen Marrs, Colin Radley, Chris Scott, Steven Carter, Paul Fell, Mark Fell, Ian Findlay, Dave Forster, Des Toward, Graeme White, Nick Brown, Lesley Sutherland, and Stan White.