CATERERS at the University Hospital of North Durham have won a national award for offering healthy eating choices.

Haden Buildings Management picked up the Heartbeat Award from Durham and Chester-le-Street Primary Care Trust.

It is presented to caterers who provide healthy food, non-smoking seating areas and meet food hygiene standards.

The trust's director of public health, Dr Tricia Cresswell, presented the award to hospital catering manager Terry Brymer.

Dr Cresswell said: "Heart disease is the biggest killer in our community, but by caterers in the area offering healthy choices to their customers, and providing non-smoking areas, we will be able to work together to raise awareness and reduce ill health."