A HOUSING association is celebrating after receiving an award for the second time in three years.

The Durham Three Rivers Housing Group has again won a Chartermark for all its operations.

The association was the first in the North-East to receive the award and has since introduced improvements, including a computer system.

The Chartermark assessors were impressed with changes that have enabled the association to carry out repairs more quickly and efficiently.

The supported housing arm of the association and its Care and Repair home improvement agency, which operates in Derwentside and Easington, also won praise.

Lead assessor Jackie Mather said: "Winning Chartermark for a second time is a great achievement and a fitting tribute to all the staff and their hard work.

"Chartermark is a seal of approval for excellence in customer care and confirms that the service provided to users is of the highest quality.

"Three Rivers demonstrates well how this is at the top of their list of priorities.

"Their high standards, professionalism and care given on a day-to-day basis has helped them achieve their Chartermark award."

Association chairwoman Clare Hepworth said: "To be validated for our services by an independent body of assessors, such as Chartermark, is a remarkable endorsement.

"This does not mean that we will now rest on our laurels as we work in a constantly changing environment.

"So, there will be more to do before the next assessment.