AN INDIAN restaurant in Halesowen has become the first to win a council award for its excellent hygiene and healthier cooking techniques.

Balti Towers has been awarded the Gold Dudley Food for Health Award after demonstrating high food hygiene and safety standards, whilst at the same time promoting healthier food choices and using healthier cooking techniques.

The award was presented to staff by the Mayor of Dudley, councillor David Stanley.

The Indian on Long Lane boasts a five star hygiene rating from Dudley Council.

Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: "I would like to congratulate Balti Towers on being the first winners of this very important updated award.

"We want to get members of the public to visit food outlets that have achieved the Food for Health award.

"Their food will have been prepared using healthier cooking techniques and they will have a bigger selection of healthier options.

"We also want people to support their local businesses and for local firms to see the business sense of why to go for the award – it is excellent publicity for them and should drive custom to their premises."

Halesowen News:

Restaurants, takeaways, sandwich shops and mobile food units across the borough are now eligible to be considered for the award.

Businesses are able to apply for the award through an online self-assessment.

Council bosses have updated the criteria and improved standards, including the advice for cooking techniques.

Online training is available to support local food businesses to improve flavour and ensure their food is better for their customer’s health.

Successful food businesses are awarded a certificate and window sticker to display.

The scheme is run jointly by Dudley Council’s environmental health and public health teams.