LONG-STANDING council tenants have been thanked for their dedication to Stockton Borough Council.

Nineteen tenants were chosen to receive awards for the length of time they have lived in council houses, and their relationship with the council.

Several of those at this week's ceremony have been in council houses for more than 40 years.

Mayor Pete Andrew and Neil Schneider, the director of housing and contract services, presented the awards at Preston Hall Museum.

Councillor Steve Nelson of the housing and community safety committee said: "These tenants are a credit to their neighbours, their communities and this council.