Two dinner ladies from Llanbradach and Blackwood have been crowned as “Shining Stars” at an awards ceremony.
Phyllis Levi of Blackwood Primary School and Joyce Hanford of Coed y Brain Primary School in Llanbradach scooped the prizes at the Wales Local Authority Catering Association Awards.
The awards aim to recognise individuals for their contribution to the school meals sector.
Phyllis, who works as a cook at Blackwood Primary, has worked for Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Catering Service for more than 40 years, serving more than 1,000 school meals each week alongside her team.
She also manages the school’s breakfast club.
In her nomination, Phyllis was described as “warm and caring” and that her “infectious personality puts a smile on many a face throughout the day”.
Meanwhile, Joyce works as a catering assistant at Coed y Brain, was described in her nomination as having a “a soft, warm and cheerful attitude”.
Joyce, who has worked at the school for 41 years and is involved with the school’s breakfast club, was also described as a hard worker, ” always going over and above what is expected of her always going the extra mile to make the service a success”.
Pupils involved with the award submission spoke highly of Joyce, with one child saying: “She helps me try new things and makes me feel happy.”
Another child said: “Aunty Joyce makes the best gravy.”
Council cabinet member with responsibility for the Catering Service, Cllr Eluned Stenner, said: “It is fantastic to hear that Joyce and Phyllis have been recognised for their fantastic efforts.
“The Catering Team deliver a vital service right across the county and we have a fantastic and dedicated workforce.
“I would like to extend my most sincere congratulations to these very worthy winners.”