COUNCIL PRAISED BY AUDIT WATCHDOG

Newcastle City Council has been praised by an independent watchdog for its response to the recession.

Overall the Audit Commission gave Newcastle a good bill of health. The council's response to the

downturn, including the purchase of the former Northern Rock tower, was praised by inspectors.

The council's work with Newcastle Futures, which has helped 400 long term unemployed people back into work and also provided an extra 123 apprenticeships, was help up as an example of good practice.

This comes after Newcastle was recently named the most sustainable city in the UK for its work in protecting the environment.

Council leader John Shipley said: "The assessment paints a very positive picture of how the council is working with the private and voluntary sectors to make the city a better place.

"It shows we are heading in the right direction, delivering for local people."