Last updated at 15:55, Friday, 17 February 2012

Children from a centre in Longtown have plenty to smile about after landing a Cumbrian first.

Youngsters and staff from the Carlisle Rural Children’s Centre have achieved an accolade for their healthy diet, regular toothbrushing and healthy lifestyle.

The Smile4Life award has come from NHS Cumbria, which is working to improve access for children to health authority dentists.

Sam Hill, the centre’s oral health champion, said: “I’m delighted our high standards of care have been recognised by this Smile4Life award.

“We’re looking forward to continuing working with parents and Anne Power, who is providing NHS support from Chandler’s Lane Dental Practice, in Brampton to further promote oral hygiene.”

Carlisle Rural is the first of Cumbria’s 28 Sure Start Children’s Centres to achieve the award, but it is planned to be rolled out at others.

Eric Rooney, a dental public health consultant for NHS Cumbria, said: “It’s fantastic.

“The award recognises the work the Longtown centre is doing to educate children and families about the importance of looking after their teeth and gums both through good oral hygiene and the food that they eat.

“Habits formed at an early age will last throughout life.”

First published at 14:07, Friday, 17 February 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk