News in brief

Call for WorldSkills backing
Hospitality businesses have been urged to back the UK's bid to host the prestigious WorldSkills competition in 2011. Organising body UK Skills has until the end of this month to put forward its proposal to stage the event against competition from France, Sweden and Australia. UK Skills boss Graeme Hall said industry support would be crucial to success, and urged people to visit www.worldskillslondon2011.com, or call 020 7543 1217 to register their support.

Charity dinner raises £11,000
Industry charity Hospitality Action raised £11,000 at a fundraising dinner at Catey winner Anton Mosimann's eponymous private members' dining club in Belgravia, London. More than 100 guests from the industry enjoyed a five-course culinary treat, including some of Mosimann's signature dishes. Hospitality Action raises money for those from the industry who have fallen on hard times.

Views wanted on hols increase
The British Hospitality Association (BHA) is keen to find out operators' views on how the Government's plans to increase the number of statutory paid holidays from 20 to 28 days a year, with pro rata paid holiday entitlement increasing for part-time workers working fewer than five days a week, will impact on the industry. Contact the BHA on 0845 880 7744.

Trinity takes healthy food title
The Trinity School in Liverpool has won the inaugural McDougalls Healthiest School Food Award. The 370-pupil school for children aged up to 11 was judged the winner for its drive to introduce healthy eating under challenging circumstances. The school has less than 50p per pupil to spend on meals and yet still serves healthy options, which are taken up by 60% of pupils. Additionally, pupils are all given water bottles and are banned from bringing in crisps, chocolate, sweets and fizzy drinks.