A SCHOOL'S efforts to encourage youngsters to embrace the healthy eating message has paid dividends.

Hurworth School, Maths and Computing College, near Darlington, has won a council award for helping pupils shun burger and chips.

Canteen staff have introduced a new deli bar, offering salads and fruit, among other options.

Burgers and chips are off the menu for two days a week, and their sales have dropped overall.

The initiatives led to the school picking up a Heartwise School Food Award from Darlington Borough Council.

Canteen manager Janet Easby said: "We're quite excited about it, especially after all the bad press school meals have had."