Veg-out, the East Sussex-based vegetarian and vegan catering company, has been awarded the prestigious Cordon Vert Diploma by the Vegetarian Society.

Owners Diane Page and Pat Wilder had to create a three-course dinner party, complete a Ready Steady Cook-style challenge and show a good knowledge of vegetarian nutrition and ingredients to gain the diploma.

Diane, from Hailsham, said: "It was hard work but well worth it to achieve recognition by the Vegetarian Society, especially as to reach the standard required is very challenging."

Pat, from Litlington, said: "We started the business because we are both passionate about food and cooking and no one else in the area seemed to be offering an exclusively vegetarian and vegan catering service - and we enjoy showing veggie food isn't boring."

VEG-OUT's main business is catering for weddings, parties and dinner parties but Diane and Pat are now branching out to offer home cookery demonstrations.