The town has joined the ranks of Whaley Bridge and Hayfield in achieving the prestigious title, awarded by the National Association of Local Councils.

The Quality Parish and Town Council scheme was introduced by the Government to make all tiers of local authority more responsive and more accountable to local people.

To achieve Quality status, Chapel-en-le-Frith Parish Council had to satisfy over 50 conditions, including having a quarterly newsletter, a website and an open forum at each of their full council meetings for residents to air their views.

Chairman Guy Martin said: "I have been aiming for this since I joined the council five years ago and realised that we had a very good organisation, excellent staff and that all members, irrespective of political colour, worked very closely together.

"I must thank our clerk Sue Stockdale for all her hard work and dedication in producing the very detailed information required for the vetting committee."

The council will be presented with a certificate in August.