A TEAM of guardian angels who offer round-the-clock support to vulnerable people has landed an industry award for the service.

Staff at Sedgefield Carelink have met the standards set out by the Telecare Services Association (TSA) code of practice for social alarms services.

Carelink offers a range of 24-hour community alarm services to more than 8,000 people across Sedgefield borough and surrounding areas.

Arthur Bellwood, Carelink services manager, said: "The audit was fairly lengthy and rigorous and teamwork was the key to our success.

"It was a most worthwhile project, which has benefited not only the staff but, more importantly, our customers.

"We are only the eighth provider in the UK to have achieved this standard - out of over 250 - and this recognition by TSA confirms the quality of the Carelink service and the important role we play in supporting people in their homes."