STOCKTON Borough Council is celebrating after netting the North-East Chamber of Commerce's Best for Business award 2002.

The accolade is awarded to the local authority which is judged to have provided the best service to the business community over the past year.

In order for the Chamber to pick a winner, each of its four area members nominates the council in their particular sub region which they feel has provided the highest standard of service and shown the most innovative approach to working with business.

The four shortlisted authorities are then "mystery shopped" to choose a winner