THE HEAD of a Gravesend primary school has been honoured by social services chiefs at a county-wide awards ceremony.

Stella Garner, head of King's Farm Primary, joined Debbie Thorne, of Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley Primary Care Trust, in winning a Director's Partnership Award at Kent County Council's (KCC) Quality Service Awards.

Mrs Garner won the accolade for several initiatives such as out-of-school clubs, a breakfast club and her work in child protection.

As the driving force behind the new stroke team at Gravesend and North Kent Hospital, Mrs Thorne was praised for her success in helping people live independent lives.

Hilary Brown, an occupational therapist based at Joynes House, Gravesend, won a £600 second prize in the individual category for her work with ethnic minorities. The money will be invested in the occupational therapy service.

After the event, Councillor Peter Lake, cabinet member for health and social care, said: "It was a brilliant evening and all those who took part deserved to win.

"They were chosen by the public and their colleagues for the top work they do."

About 150 KCC social work staff were nominated by colleagues and members of the public.

August 1, 2001 15:52