THE Council’s decision making team has been highly commended in two prestigious national award categories.

The strength of St Helens’ governance set-up was praised in The Local Government Chronicle Awards following a nomination by the authority’s external auditors Grant Thornton.

Effective and transparent decision making, allied to councillors’ and officers’ involvement were highlighted as bringing long-term financial stability and value for money services.

Councillor Jeff Fletcher, Cabinet member for Finance and Corporate Services said: “We are pleased that our high standards have been recognised which is a testament to the commitment of staff and members.

“As we face more and more grant cuts it is vital that we properly manage all the resources that we have and this shows that we are doing so."