A pair of councillors who have helped save millions of pounds after two councils merged have been recognised with a national award.

Stephen Edwards, of Forest Heath District Council, and Dave Ray, of St Edmundsbury Borough Council, have been given a joint award by the CCLA for outstanding contribution to financial performance.

The councillors are portfolio holders for resources and performance for their respective councils and were nominated after making £3.5 million savings.

Cllr Edwards, who is also a Brandon Town councillor, said: 'We were the only joint nomination for an award and I think we won because we are a good example of how councils can work together to achieve so much. Our way of working very much fits the government ethos for shared services.'

Cllr Ray said: 'This award reflects the tremendous work of so many people at both councils, staff and elected members. We're extremely proud to have won the award on behalf of everyone.'