THE Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust has finally shaken off its 'no star' tag as standards continue to rise.

The trust, which runs all clinical services at Darent Valley Hospital, was given one star in the Government's hotel-style performance indicators. The award has delighted the trust, which was dubbed the worst in the country last year. Under the leadership of a new chief executive, Sue Jennings, the trust has turned around its performance in many key areas.

Mrs Jennings said: "During the time I have been at Darent Valley I have been most impressed with the dedication, commitment and hard work of all the staff at the hospital."

The trust has improved its record on inpatient waiting lists, accident and emergency trolley waits, cancelled operations and outpatient appointments.

Gravesham MP Chris Pond said the one star award was "a cause for celebration" and predicted the trust would eventually receive all three stars.