Calderdale and Kirklees Councils have been given top awards for developing pioneering new approaches to essential local services.

Kirklees won its Beacon Status for competitiveness and enterprise after supporting business development among socially excluded groups, and running an effective advice team and call centre. Councillor Martyn Bolt, Kirklees council's cabinet member said: "Gaining Beacon Status is an acknowledgement of the progressive and positive way we carry out our responsibilities. We concentrate on advice and support to help businesses comply with regulations, rather than the heavy hand of enforcement and prosecution, although such action is taken if necessary."

Calderdale was rewarded for its local health strategies for improving health by removing barriers to effective joint working with health partners.

Its council leader Coun John Ford said: "This shows just what can be achieved when councils work together with partner organisations for the benefit of local people."

The councils will now share their best practice with local authorities all over the country.

The Beacon Council scheme was introduced in 1999 by the Government to select a number of councils to act as pace setters and centres of excellence.