While working hard behind the scenes on local government re-organisation, the can-do attitude of Tynedale Council continues to shine through in its own right, for it has been praised as 'outstanding' by the Government when it was awarded Beacon status for 'Better Public Places'.

COUNCIL leaders have published their first blueprint for a brand new council aimed at saving £17m a year and improving services for residents in Northumberland.

Over the past decade over 300 voluntary and community sector organisations across Tynedale have benefited from £1½ million in Grant Aid funding.

This week sees an initiative across Northumberland to raise awareness of domestic abuse and violence.

Tynedale's Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership has been congratulated by the Home Office for its strong performance in reducing crime and increasing community safety in the district.