Altrincham has been named as the best place to live according to a national newspaper.

Judges from the Sunday Times travelled thousands of miles around the UK, visiting locations and talking to locals.

They looked for improving towns, villages or city centres, attractive, well-designed homes, and locations bursting with community spirit.

A range of factors were assessed, from schools, transport and broadband speed to culture, green spaces and the health of the high street, to produce a guide to the UK's finest locations to call home.

Altrincham was praised for its revitalised town centre. The Market House, a lively market with an indoor food hall, has been a major contributor to the town's upturn.

"We're going to reinvent ourselves for the foreseeable future," said Altrincham market boss Nick Jones, who runs Market House food hall.

"Since we took over the market in 2013 it's been an amazing force in the local community and that's part of what makes living here so special. We desperately want to keep people's spirits up during these uncertain times."

Helen Davies, the Sunday Times Home editor, said: "Never has where you live felt more important. This year we have, along with house prices, air quality, good schools and access to green spaces, championed locations that have showcased great community spirit. The feeling of involvement in and concern for one's local community is being challenged - and celebrated - as never before. We wish everyone well wherever they live."

Sir Graham Brady MP, added: "I am delighted that The Sunday Times has judged Altrincham to be the best place to live in the UK. For decades we have had the country’s best state schools but this award is also a tribute to all those who have made such a success of our town’s regeneration and to the many people who contribute so much to our vibrant community life. We must all do what we can to ensure that this great success continues when the current crisis has passed."

Trafford MP Rob Chilton added: "In these difficult times it is great to see a town in Trafford being recognised more widely for its fantastic community spirit, and the many years of partnership work to improve its environment. I've no doubt locals will continue this hard work to make it even better."