WIRRAL has been awarded the prestigious Plaque of Honour by the Council of Europe - its highest European accolade to date.

Already winner of the Flag of Honour and the European Diploma, Wirral received the honour, the second highest distinction after the Europe Prize, in recognition of its sustained programme to raise European awareness.

Wirral was one of only 13 local authorities in Europe to receive the award, which will be presented to Wirral's Mayor at a special presentation yet to be finalised.

This is the latest plaudit for the EuroWirral marketing campaign set up six years ago to put Wirral 'on the international map'.

Said Mayor Barney Gilfoyle: "The Plaque of Honour is the third and most prized achievement received by Wirral for its awareness and international partnerships from the Council of Europe.

"This is proof that the investment in Wirral is not just economic but also cultural and educational. We should all be extremely proud to win, especially in this, the year of the UK's European Union presidency."

Wirral's programme of European awareness includes an annual sixth-form conference, school exchanges with Spain, France and Germany and close links with twin towns Lorient and Gennevilliers.

Added Coun Phil Davies, Chair of Wirral's Economic Regneration Sub-Committee: "This is a magnificent achievement, and recognises the work of the council, through the EuroWirral initiative, to put Wirral on the map."

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