A WORCESTER-based catering firm responsible for satisfying the appetites of staff and visitors at County Hall has been awarded the Food for Life Gold Catering Mark.

Aspens has been rewarded for its commitment to sustainability, in particular using local produce.

The firm, based in Friar Street, was awarded the catering and hospitality contract at the County Council last year.

Mandy Day, interim head of facilities at County Hall, said: “This is a terrific achievement.

"The county council has a commitment to sustainability and is working hard to minimise its impact on the environment and it is great that this is shared by our caterers.

"Together we have and will continue to develop a strong partnership.”

John Roe, managing partner for Aspens, added: “We set our sights on this scheme when we founded the company as we wanted to give our customers the reassurance of high-quality food standards, traceability and provenance that this award brings.

“We have a commitment in promoting locally-sourced food to support the local communities that we serve.

“This award forms an important part of our strategy.

"The company worked hard to achieve the Gold Catering Mark for recognition of its greater use of fresh, seasonal and organic ingredients including high-welfare meat and sustainable fish.”