STUDENTS and catering staff at a Dawlish college are celebrating after being awarded top marks for their hygiene.

After a spot check on conditions in the kitchens and dining room at Oakwood Court College, inspectors from the Food Standards Agency were so impressed with what they saw, they gave the college a five star hygiene certificate.

This is the highest rating awarded by the FSA.

Delighted catering manager and chef instructor Bernie Bowes explained that the award was a huge achievement and was particularly rewarding for the college's students who work alongside Bernie and her team of three staff.

Bernie said: 'The students do catering as part of their studies here and a big part of that is cleaning which they do to a very high standard.

'I am very proud of the students. They work hard preparing lunch, preparing the dining room and also making sure they are clean and tidy themselves.'

Inspectors from the FSA carried out an unannounced check on the college's facilities, looking at every department, fridges, freezers, cookers, storage areas, even under cupboards.

The college provides specialist residential accommodation and teaching for 37 young adults with learning difficulties.

Part of their training includes catering instruction, teaching them cooking and hygiene skills.

Bernie added: 'The inspectors expect high standards and I was not unduly worried by their visit.

'We have a very busy kitchen here and it would be much harder work without the students' efforts.

'To achieve five stars is excellent.'