The environmental work of Merton Council has been recognised at the Local Government Chronical Awards.

Beating local authorities from across the country, the Sustainable Environment gong went to the borough for the council's pioneering Merton Rule.

The initiative requires at least 10 per cent of energy for new developments to be provided from on-site renewable energy sources.

The other achievement of the night came when a highly-commended award for community involvement went to Merton's community and housing team for its work with the High Path Community Resource Centre.