CATERERS at a village primary school have made it to tomorrow’s finals of a national competition.

The catering team at Turton and Edgworth School has reached the final in the LACA (Lead Association for Catering in Education) Awards.

The team will go up against two other schools in the ‘self-delivered primary school’ category for the top gong.

They have been recognised not only for the school meals but for the work they do across the school, including linking in with lessons to make themed meals, and work with parents and the community.

These include a lavish historical banquet to join up with a school project on the Tudors and inviting parents and carers to sample the meals on offer.

The winner of the award will be announced at a gala dinner at the Hilton Metropole in Birmingham.

Headteacher Angela Stott said: “This is an absolutely wonderful achievement and is a testament to the fantastic enthusiasm and expertise of catering manager Suzanne Appleton and the catering team.

“They are all excellent and so passionate about their work with the children, staff, parents and the community.

“As well as providing top class meals they also do a great deal of hands-on work with the children to support healthy eating, nutrition and the curriculum as well as wonderful work with community groups.

“They absolutely deserve to be nominated for such a prestigious award.”

Coun Dave Harling, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s executive member for schools and education, said: “Healthy, nutr- itious and tasty food is incredibly important for young people.

“And I am thrilled that the catering team at the school is working so hard to provide this to their pupils and are also helping to make it an interesting part of their education.

“I wish them the best of luck at the awards.”