CATERERS, retailers and manufacturers were rewarded for achieving a high standard of food safety this week.

Gold, silver and bonze Foodsafe Awards were presented by Vale Royal Mayor Clr Steve Gough, to more than 30 people at a ceremony held by the borough council.

And for three companies there were special accolades, as St Luke's Hospice, of Queens Way, Winsford, was named as Caterer of the Year, butchers R Minshall and Son, of Church Street, Weaverham, received the award for Retailer of the Year and poultry producers Forresters Ltd from Kingsley, received the Manufacturer of the Year Award.

Speaking at the ceremony, Clr Gough, said: "Food safety is an important political and national issue and I believe that we can all work in partnership to deliver safe food.

"Everyone receiving an award is to be congratulated on maintaining such high standards of food safety."

Winners of the Foodsafe Award were chosen after officers carried out inspections to make sure food handling practices were being observed. Caterers also needed to provide healthy food options and non-smoking areas.