Manchester city council has been given a prestigious food award at the House of Commons in recognition of its Food Futures strategy.

The presentation was made by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) at a parliamentary reception during Food Safety Week.

Manchester Food Futures encourages the development of a flourishing good food culture and economy in the city.

David Statham, from the FSA, said: "We hope that this award will inspire other local authorities and encourage the sharing of good practice."

The council has been working with Manchester Food and Drink Festival to promote the importance of healthy eating.

Food Futures aims to influence policy and is a keen supporter of local food production and distribution.

According to Food Futures, around 900 deaths in Manchester every year can be attributed to diet-related cancer and coronary heart disease.