A Suffolk caterer has been presented with the county's 100th 'Eat Out, Eat Well' award at special celebration in Southwold.

The gong, which honours catering businesses, cafes, restaurants and workplace canteens, is designed to recognise the provision of healthier food options to customers.

T(n)S Catering Ltd, who cater for Stoke College in Sudbury, were presented with the award at Southwold's Harbour Inn on Monday, November 6, as a result of their commitment to using healthier catering practices, such as grilling instead of frying, and the use of healthier ingredients.

The award is assessed by local Environmental Health Officers and managed by the Public Health team at Suffolk County Council.

Tony Goldson, cabinet member for health at Suffolk County Council, said: 'I am delighted that Suffolk has achieved 100 Eat Out, Eat Well awards.

'This really demonstrates the commitment of caterers to provide healthier choices for customers who want to enjoy eating out, but with their health in mind.

'Many of us choose to eat out as a treat now and then, and the Eat Out Eat Well award ensures that we have the option to eat more healthily.'

Several councils across the nation have adopted the accolade, which also acknowledges the provision of healthy food for children and rewards the promotion and marketing of more nutritious options.

Alaric Pugh, cabinet member for planning and growth at St Edmundsbury Borough Council, added: 'It is important to help all youngsters to eat healthily. Habits for later life are established early, so I am delighted that a school caterer in the borough St Edmundsbury has won this 100th award.

'Obesity causes 30,000 deaths a year in England and diet plays a major role in heart disease and has been linked to some cancers.

'It's now more important than ever for caterers, restaurants and cafes to help consumers make the healthier choices and Eat Out, Eat Well is both the recognition and the support for those businesses that go that extra mile.'

If you would like to know more information about the Eat Out, Eat Well initiative and its impact on Suffolk, visit healthysuffolk.org.uk.