A Pharmacy Health Champion has won an national award for his proactive attitude and efforts to promote health improvement in a Dereham pharmacy.

Peter Thurston, a manager for Lloyds Pharmacy, was awarded the Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) Health Improvement Award, as part of the annual Hygiea Awards.

This recognises outstanding achievement in one of RSPH's Health Improvement qualifications by a learner who has combined their studies with making a contribution to their community's health and wellbeing.

Mr Thurston was nominated by Lauren Seamons, from the Norfolk Local Pharmaceutical Committee.

She said: 'This award is a fantastic achievement, not only for Peter, but also in recognising the role that community pharmacies play in supporting the public.'

Mr Thurston said: 'I was surprised to receive the award as I see promoting healthy lifestyles to our customers and community as being as important as providing medicines.'