Shropshire school meals service runner-up in catering awards

Shropshire County Council’s school meals service has been named runner-up in an award that recognises the best education caterers in the UK.

The council was one of only three finalists in the education category at this year’s Cost Sector Catering awards, which were presented at a ceremony at the Hilton Metropole in London last night (Thursday 27 March).

The education award recognises ‘excellence in the provision of foodservice for schools in both the private and state sectors’.

Shropshire County Council was beaten to the award by Thames Valley University. The other finalist was Nottingham City Council.

Ann Hartley, Shropshire County Council’s Cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Though we were disappointed not to have won, simply being named one of only three finalists for this prestigious award is something we are incredibly proud of. It recognises the hard work that has been carried out over several years to improve school meals in Shropshire’s schools. And it demonstrates to Shropshire’s parents and children that their schools are providing them with meals that are healthy, nutritrious and balanced, and that are amongst the very best in the country.”

The annual Cost Sector Catering awards recognise those who have made an outstanding contribution to the catering industry.

28 March 2008