A DORSET care home has won the South West small business category in the 2006 Edge Employer Awards.

The Old Vicarage Care Home, of Leigh, near Sherborne, scooped £5,000 for investment in training as part of its prize.

Now the business will go into the national finals in London on November 28.

Office manager Tracy Hollex said: "We are absolutely delighted to have won this accolade.

"Not only is it wonderful to be recognised for the opportunities we are providing young people, but we now have £5,000 to help us continue and build upon the great things that we are doing."

Edge is an independent foundation dedicated to raising the desirability and status of vocational and practical learning among 14 to 24-year-olds of all levels of ability.

The Old Vicarage Care Home is a privately-run care home with 49 members of staff.

Judges picked the home because of its work with young students, including its Care Ambassadors scheme, in which young staff work with schools to inspire students to consider the career opportunities in the care sector.

Edge chief executive Andy Powell said: "Edge is delighted to award this prize to the Old Vicarage Care Home. The Old Vicarage has created some fantastic opportunities for young people in the Dorset area and has shown that hands-on learning is good for employers and employees alike.

"This is a great example of the good work we want to shine a spotlight on."