SWINDON’S Salvation Army-run Sandwich People team are celebrating a five-star rating for their kitchen.

They have received the accolade after being assessed by Swindon Borough Council’s Environmental Health Department for their “Scores On the Doors” initiative.

The Sandwich People is based in Spring Gardens, at The Salvation Army’s Lifehouse Centre, providing support and opportunities for homeless people.

They form a team of volunteers who have been trained in food hygiene and preparation to prepare quality sandwiches and snacks to sell in local business premises.

The scheme has expanded considerably over the past 18 months with many of the trainees moving on to obtain employment and independent accommodation thanks to the skills acquired with The Sandwich People.

Business Coordinator Liz Osborne said she was delighted they had received the highest rating from the council.

“Our modern kitchen facilities have been put to the test in recent months as we have expanded our business,” she said.

“It is a privilege to work with a committed team of volunteers who are often up early and who stay on after every delivery to ensure that the kitchen is left clean and ready for the next day. “We set ourselves some very high standards at the outset and it’s good to know from an independent external audit by the local Environmental Health officials that these are being maintained. “We are eager to serve everyone with good quality food safely prepared and served attractively.

“Some of our customers have very exacting requirements so we recognise that it’s vital to ensure that nothing is overlooked. “Over 65 team members have undertaken a course in food hygiene since the business started. It is rewarding to know that our standards are on a par with some of the most prestigious facilities in the town – and we aim to keep it that way.”

The council’s food safety team regularly makes unannounced visits to food businesses to ensure they comply with food safety law.

Using a tried and tested rating scheme, the business is given a rating of between zero and five stars. Premises are provided with stickers to show how many stars they have achieved.