A SCHOOL chef has been named employee of the month.

Catering firm Scholarest presented Ivy Walrond with a certificate and a badge at Perrymount Primary School, Sunderland Road, Forest Hill.

Ms Walrond beat 25 other nominees from Lewisham borough to scoop the award.

Her speciality dishes are jerk chicken with savoury rice and turkey pie with roasted vegetables.

She always uses fresh vegetables and accommodates the dietary requirements of the school's special needs children.

The 44-year-old said: "I'm surprised and happy to receive this award."

Perrymount headteacher Geraldine Constable said: "Who needs Jamie Oliver? Ivy has transformed the meals at lunchtime.

"We now have a variety of mouthwatering, healthy foods which the children and staff love to eat.

"We are all proud of her and are pleased her hard work and dedication have been recognised."