FOOD outlets in Kidderminster proved they had the recipe for success when awards were served up.

Charlie G's, a baguette shop in New Road, earned the nationally recognised Heartbeat Award, given to caterers meeting standards for healthy choice menus, non-smoking provision and food hygiene.

The award is issued by Wyre Forest District Council in association with Wyre Forest Primary Care Trust - PCT.

The shop, which has also been given a Clean Food Award by the council, was praised for the way it prepared food and maintained high standards.

Criteria for the Heartbeat Award include reducing excess fat in food, removing fat and crackling from pork joints before final cooking and only adding margarine or butter as requested by customers.

Cindy Gulliford, owner of Charlie G's, said: "I am delighted that our commitment to high standards of food hygiene, safety and record keeping have been recognised in this way."

Meanwhile, Captain Cod Rest-aurant, on Comberton Hill, has been given a Clean Food Award, for meeting legal obligations, as well as having neat, presentable and well trained staff.

District councillor, Anne Hingley, the cabinet member for housing, health and rural affairs, presented both awards.

She said: "We are delighted to be able to give out more awards to food businesses in the area which have demonstrated excellent standards. I hope other caterers will apply for the awards."

David Priestnall, chairman of the PCT, said: "This Heartbeat Award gives recognition to caterers and restaurants which provide healthier choices on their menus."