A GUESTHOUSE has won an unsung business award for their warm welcome to thousands of customers.

Trudy's Guesthouse, in Coniscliffe Road, Darlington, has been honoured in the national Swift Awards scheme.

Proprietors Trudy and Ronnie Johnson have been welcoming visitors since 1999 and have hundreds and hundreds of satisfied customers who often return to visit.

Mrs Johnson said: "It came totally out of the blue, but we do always guarantee a warm welcome at Trudy's Guesthouse.

"We have Wi-Fi, a lovely garden and all mod-cons so anyone working, studying or just visiting Darlington can be sure of a lovely stay."

The Swift Awards recognise unsung businesses in every major city in the UK, which, according to judges, deliver the quickest, most reliable and best-value service.

Trudy's Guesthouse will now benefit from a range of privileges given to Swift Awards winner including listing in a free 24-hour directory detailing best value businesses in the region as well as the right to display the award sticker in its windows.