The Sleep Apnoea Project has helped hundreds of Bostonians to a better night's sleep, and last week triumphed at the East Midlands Health and Social Care Awards 2008.

Winning in the service transformation category, it is now in the running for national acclaim.

The ear nose and throat consultant who runs the service, Michael Oko, said: "We are delighted to have won the award. It shows that the United Lincolnshire Hospital Trust can lead the way in services.

"This is good news for the trust and also for Lincolnshire patients who know they have an award-winning service available to them," he added.

Launched 18 months ago, the service involves diagnosing and treating patients for sleep apnoea.

This is where a person stops breathing momentarily as they sleep, leading to excessive weariness during the day.

It is estimated to affect between one and four per cent of the population, and so far the service has seen 400 patients.

It has also gained the backing of the Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership, after research showed sleep apnoea could have contributed to some road accidents.

The project will now compete in the National Health Social Care Awards in London in July.

The awards are given annually by the Department of Health and the NHS Institute for Improvement to recognise innovation, excellence and teamwork with the NHS Trust.