A SCHOOL chef has been named as a top employee for her dedication.

Catering company Scolarest has chosen Edith McElrue as its employee of the year in County Durham.

Mrs McElrue works at Tanfield Lea Junior School, Tanfield Lea, Stanley, where she and her colleagues are responsible for cooking up to 130 lunches a day.

She was selected for the Be A Star award from 800 members of catering staff working for Scolarest across the county.

Mrs McElrue said: "I was thrilled to win the award. I enjoy every part of my job, the catering team has a really good relationship with the school and I love being with the children."

She has been a member of the Tanfield Lea Junior catering team for 22 years.

Tanfield Lea Junior headteacher Kay Hemmings nominated McElrue for the award because of the service and healthy school meals she provides.

She said: "It is fantastic that Edith is receiving public recognition for the brilliant job she does at our school.

"Edith is our flexible friend, meeting every new challenge with a positive attitude. We are extremely lucky to have her working with us."

Ms McElrue is a member of the Tanfield Lea Junior's School Nutrition Action Group and has organised healthy eating events for pupils, including fruit and vegetable tasting.

Ms McElrue, of Trefoil Road, Tanfield Lea, was presented with a bouquet of flowers, a bottle of champagne and £50 in Marks & Spencer vouchers at the Scolarest staff conference, held at Caedmon Hall, at the College of St Hild and St Bede, University of Durham.