A Darlington baker is rising to the occasion after success in a competition.

Michael Sisterson was runner-up in the Shell Livewire awards for the Tees Valley, a scheme which recognises the efforts of business people, aged 16 to 30.

No one was more surprised by the award than he was, as his name was put forward as a candidate by Darlington Business Venture.

The 30-year-old, who runs Michael's the Bakers, in Cockerton, Darlington, said his success had come through hard work, long hours and a mixed approach to business, as the bakery combined the traditional with the more commercial.

Mr Sisterson, who plans to get married in November, received his Livewire prize of £500 and a certificate, at a ceremony in Stockton