Eight councils have celebrated winning Beacon status in the ‘culture and sport for hard to reach groups’ category of the Beacon Scheme, run by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM).

The Beacon Scheme was set up to disseminate best practice in local government across a range of themes, which are selected by the government each year. The themes, which are announced in advance, are chosen because of their importance to the public on a day-to-day basis and their contribution to the quality of life enjoyed by the community.

The culture and sport for hard to reach groups theme acknowledges the importance of cultural and sporting infrastructure, focusing particularly on how local authorities and partner deliverers are ensuring the most disadvantaged groups are benefiting from sport and cultural services.

All best value authorities can apply to become a Beacon – status which lasts for one year. The award decision is made by government ministers based on recommendations from an independent advisory panel and winners work to help promote best practice with authorities which are performing less well, in partnership with the Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA).

This year's winners are; Sunderland City Council; Borough of Telford and Wrekin; London Borough of Newham; Nottinghamshire County Council; Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council; Babergh District Council; Eastbourne Borough Council and Leicester City Council.