A weekly newspaper’s editor has hailed her patch after it was named the happiest place to live in Britain.

Gemma Brown, who edits the Hexham Courant, has praised Hexham’s “vibrant community” after it was given the crown.

The Northumberland town was awarded the title by property website Rightmove after 22,000 people complete its survey.

They answered a range of questions about where they live, from the friendliness of the locals through to what their area has to offer.

Gemma, pictured, told the BBC: “Yes there are vacant shops but I think there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes to try address that.

“It’s a vibrant community and I think that’s a real plus; it’s the sense of community.

“It has lovely green open spaces and an arts centre, an independent cinema and all of the lovely independent shops that we have. I think it really punches above its weight.”

* Fancy living there yourself?  The Courant is currently advertising for a new trainee reporter here.