Manchester Evening News journalist Peter Sharples has won a top industry award for his writing on personal finance.

The 55-year-old, who has been the paper's personal finance editor for eight years, picked up the regional prize at the British Insurance Brokers' Association Journalist of the Year Awards.

He was praised by judges for his reports on compensation culture, and what effect frivolous claims have on insurance premiums.

This is the third time that Peter has won this particular prize.

He said: "I'm very pleased.

"It's nice to realise that people think your contribution is worthwhile."

Prizes were also given in categories covering national broadsheets, tabloids and trade papers.

Jane Hall from The Journal in Newcastle was highly commended in the regional newspaper category.

BIBA chief executive Eric Galbraith said: "These awards were created to encourage and recognise the work done by journalists to help to raise awareness and understanding of the often complex issues facing brokers, insurers and consumers alike.

"It is a task that has been achieved by all of the winners and by all of those shortlisted this year."