COOK Anne Appleyard has been named employee of the year by Durham County Council's catering division.

Service Direct held the first of what it is hoped will be an annual awards ceremony at County Hall.

Anne, who is joint cook-in-charge at Newton Aycliffe police station, was given the award for excellence in all aspects of her job.

A spokeswoman for Durham County Council said: "She is really committed to her job, and the award covers everything from customer care to her cooking ability.

"She also does lots of things in her spare time, and she goes that extra mile to bring in things from home on themed days."

Anne, of Greenhill Road, Heighington, said: "I was absolutely amazed to win. I just cannot explain how I felt, because I've never won anything in my life. But the award really is totally for teamwork. There are another three of us, and we all work altogether, so I can't take any credit."

Anne, who started her catering career at the Bay Horse, Heighington, works with joint cook-in-charge Susan Stapleton, assistant cook Jean Neal and weekend cook Anne Nixon.