A STEADY improvement in food hygiene standards across the borough was reflected in the increase to 59 awards being presented this year to St Helens Council.

The awards were made at the fourth presentation ceremony at the town hall when the mayor, Councillor David Craig, presented certificates.

The increase in awards came despite the fact that qualifying conditions have been raised since last year - a small number of businesses who previously held awards were unable to achieve the new criteria.

The awards recognise standards of food hygiene practice which is well above the legal requirement. The judging for the award is done by the council's Environmental Health Officers when carrying out their routine unannounced inspections.

Premises receiving the award will display a Food Hygiene Award certificate and a window sticker.

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