Muriel McKilligan, centre, was Easterfield Primary's winner

Muriel McKilligan prepares meals for the 22 children at Easterfield Primary in Fortrie near Turriff.

She was presented with her award by Nora Sands, the school dinner lady who worked with Jamie Oliver during his campaign to improve school catering.

The proud winner will now compete with other regional winners from the rest of the UK for the title of School Link Dinner Lady of the Year.

'So special'

She said: "I am so honoured to be chosen as a regional winner in the School Link Dinner Lady of the Year competition.

"I think the children like my food as it is healthy but full of flavour and cooked with care - the children have told me that their favourite meal is my homemade lentil soup."

All the children who attend Easterfield Primary nominated their dinner lady, and one said: "There's no better cook than Muriel. Her food could make a cat purr."

Gemma Byers, of School Link, said: "Muriel is so special to the children. She cooks delicious meals and even caters for specific tastes and preferences.