KNUTSFORD has been named as one of the top 10 places to live in the north west by The Sunday Times.

The accolade comes ahead of the full reveal of The Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide, including the overall winner, which is published on Sunday, April 14.

The supplement, which named Knutsford as the best place to live in the north west in 2017, assesses a range of factors, from employment, schools and broadband speed to culture, community spirit and local shops, to compile the definitive top locations to live.

The methodology uses robust statistics, including exclusive, up-to-date house prices provided by Habito and TwentyCi, but also the knowledge of The Sunday Times’s expert panel.

The judges combine the hard data with their own on-the-ground experience and insight.

Kirkby Lonsdale takes top spot in the north west in this year’s Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide.

Cheshire has most entries in the region, with three towns making the list. Altrincham, last year’s winner, retains a spot on this year's list, thanks to its vibrant market, high-achieving schools and convenient location.

Knutsford, described by the Sunday Times as ‘the most charming corner of the county’s golden triangle’, is joined by a Bollington, a new entry.

According to The Sunday Times report, prospective buyers can find a starter property in Knutsford for £283,715, a mid-market for £358,165, or a top-of-the-range for £774,100.

Helen Davies, The Sunday Times Home editor, said, "Finding our very own best place to live now feels more important than ever, for our wellbeing and wealth, happiness and health.

"This year we were looking for community spirit along with convenience and culture. There is so much going on around the country, and so many great places that the choice was a hard one."