BOSSES who have made their workplaces smoke-free have been recognised at an awards ceremony.

Eleven east Durham employers were presented with National Clean Air awards by Easington Primary Care Trust at the ceremony in Shotton Hall Banqueting Suite, in Peterlee.

Six organisations received the gold award for making their premises completely smoke-free: BHK(UK) Ltd, SSL International, Seaham Sure Start, Deaf Hill Primary School, Wheatley Hill Family Centre and Peterlee Sure Start.

A further five employers received silver awards for making all internal areas smoke-free, with designated external smoking areas: Wheatley Hill Community Cente, HMRC Inland Revenue Contact Centre, Laird Lifestyle, Hill Rigg House and Deneside Medical Centre.

During the event, health experts gave presentations on the importance of smoke-free workplaces.

Claire Mathews, the trust's programme manager, said: "We know that there is now a much higher percentage of non-smokers than smokers and many workers and customers are seeking smoke-free environments.

"Becoming smoke-free can be a huge advantage for employers. It protects the health of staff and can subsequently reduce legal liability, can reduce tensions between smokers and non-smokers and it shows a commitment to the well-being of staff and customers."