A SCHOOL has won an award for helping its pupils lead healthy lifestyles.

Witton Gilbert Primary School received the County Durham and Darlington Healthy School Standard.

The standard, which is nationally accredited and backed by the Durham and Chester-le-Street Primary Care Trust, covers healthy eating, physical activity, anti-bullying and emotional wellbeing.

Dr Tricia Cresswell, the trust's public health director, said: "Today's young people are tomorrow's adults and by raising their awareness of the importance of their health and wellbeing we will, hopefully, see fitter and healthier people in County Durham in the future.

"I would like to congratulate all the staff and pupils at Witton Gilbert Primary School on achieving this award.''

Headteacher Lynda Carr said all areas of school life were looked at, including self-esteem, confidence and the effect of bullying, to see what could be improved.

"The award endorses regular routines we have followed for some time and we are absolutely delighted to receive it," she said.

* Leaflets about healthy vegetarian diets were given to pupils at St Margaret's Primary School, in Durham, by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.