Margaret White, cook at St Theresa's Primary School in Manston, worked with Leeds Healthy Schools co-ordinators to promote school meals.

She offered samples of her food at open days and parents' evenings, provided advance menus to parents and displayed the day's menu around the school.

Since Mrs White joined the school 18 months ago the number of children opting for school meals has increased from 90 – out of 400 pupils – to 160.

And pupils have renamed their dining hall Hutchinson's Health Hut after headteacher John Hutchinson. He said Mrs White was 'awesome': "Mrs White is a brilliant cook and the food is of the highest quality.

"She's been very keen to involve the school in healthy eating. She provides lots of fresh fruit, vegetarian options, a salad bar and plenty of fresh vegetables cooked to perfection."

Mr Hutchinson added that he had seen real advantages in the increased take-up of school meals.

"Having a healthy meal at lunchtime has really improved the children's behaviour and concentration. It's made the school a happier place."

Mrs White, who has been working in school meals for 36 years,is passionate about healthy eating.

"Jamie Oliver has highlighted a lot of things for parents and children that we in school meals have been doing for five years," she said.

"The publicity has been good and these days children are more prepared to go for healthy food. They are more adventurous than they used to be.

"Recently I tried Quorn, offered them a taster and was surprised how many wanted to try it."