A NORTH-East professor has won a national teaching prize and recognition as one of the UK's leading lecturers.

Professor Ben Knights, a professor of English and Cultural Studies at the University of Teesside, Middlesbrough, has won a National Teaching Fellowship Scheme award.

He is one of 20 winners who will receive £50,000, to fund projects which will make a contribution to learning.

Prof Knights will use his prize to help teach English to foreign students.

He will be presented with his honour at an awards dinner, in London, on July 10.