The authority has been given a Good Egg Award in recognition of its work to buy eggs locally and reduce food miles.

Since the end of February, Fluffetts Farm in Fordingbridge has been contracted to supply more than 600,000 free-range eggs per year to be used in 32 secondary and 446 primary and special schools, as well four care homes in Hampshire.

It is also supplying six Wiltshire primary and secondary schools and one Dorset primary school.

This is the first time that the award, made by Compassion in World Farming, has been presented to a county council.

Councillor Michael Woodhall said: 'Hampshire County Council is very proud indeed to be the first county council in the country to win a Good Egg Award.

'It really highlights the importance we place on providing sustainable healthy school meals and supporting the rural economy.

'The effective partnerships in place to make this initiative work are testament to why the council now leads the way in the public sector procurement of local food.

'Locating a Hampshire-based farm capable of supplying in excess of 600,000 eggs per year has required a committed and dedicated effort from Hampshire County Supplies, which should be highly commended.'