STEETON'S Airedale Hospital has the highest standard of cleanliness and food, a national survey has found.

The Department of Health inspected and reported on the patient environment and food services in hospitals across the country as part of the Clean Hospital and Better Hospital Food programme.

Airedale was given the green light in its traffic light ratings - the highest awarded.

Lord Warner, the health minister, said: "Airedale NHS Trust has made great progress in ensuring that patients are treated in the cleanest possible environment and are served high quality food.

"I am impressed by the steps staff have taken to provide patients with appetising meals and refreshments throughout the day. The introduction of ward hostesses is particularly welcome as are the moves to introduce protected meal times for elderly patients.

"The cleaning staff at Airedale are also to be congratulated for their care and attention in maintaining such high standards."

Richard Fisher, head of commercial services at Airedale, said: "This national recognition of our high standards in the cleanliness of the hospital and the food we provide is a credit to our staff.

"They are a dedicated team who work extremely hard to make the patient's stay as pleasant and comfortable as possible."