MINCE and crusty dumplings and hot chocolate fudge cake are just two of the delicious dishes which have helped Jean Wheatman win the UK's Best Dinner Lady award.

Mrs Wheatman, from Peterlee, in east Durham, beat off competition from all over the country to scoop the national title, sponsored by Clover dairy spread.

Unit manager at Shotton Hall School, Mrs Wheatman was nominated by her pupils for her "cooking, generosity and work with special needs children".

But yesterday, the modest 56-year-old grandmother was taking her new found fame in her stride.

"I just love my job," said Mrs Wheatman, who has been a dinner lady for 21 years, the past five at Shotton Hall.

Contrary to popular opinion, Mrs Wheatman does not believe today's children only want to eat pasties and pizzas.

"Today, we served roast pork and all the trimmings, and chocolate fudge cake, and there's not a thing left."

Not only does she decide and help to prepare the daily dishes at school, she also whips up mouthwatering masterpieces for her teacher husband, John, her three grandchildren and guests at her many dinner parties.

But it is not just the cooking that prompted pupils at Shotton Hall to vote her top of the class.

She was also praised for her friendly approach to students.

"I enjoy talking to the children and listening to their day to day problems," she said.

The top award brings with it a weekend in Paris for Mrs Wheatman and her husband, so there may soon be some French cuisine on the menu at Shotton Hall