EFFORTS to beat bullies and improve the lives of vulnerable children have earned a national accolade.

Durham County Council's anti-bullying service was rewarded for its work in schools as part of a multi-agency approach to the problem.

Investing in Children, which involves a number of partner groups, is designed to improve services for youngsters by taking their views on board.

After a rigorous assessment process, the service has been awarded Investing in Children status.

The certificate heralding the achievement was presented at a ceremony at County Hall, Durham, attended by many of the youngsters who have worked with the service.

Anti-bullying service co-ordinator Val McFarlane said: "This award is an indication of how much our work is centred round the needs and wishes of children living in County Durham.

"A very intensive investigation was carried out by the Investing in Children team, involving interviewing young people, teachers, other school staff and our project workers."