Braemar Gardens in Sunderland cares for three autistic boys, and their families nominated the residential home for the prestigious Chairman's Award.

"We are often at a loss to find the words to express our continuing gratitude," one mother wrote.

Julie Dunlop, registered manager since 2010, says the home has an "amazing"relationship with all the boys' parents. "The staff team are amazing too. I appreciate every single one of them," she says.

Actor and television presenter Christopher Biggins - star of this year's Darlington Hippodrome pantomime Peter Pan - sent a special message for the award, as well as panto tickets for the home.