Kingston Hospital is one of only five hospitals in the country to be given a clean bill of health for its hygiene code.

The hospital was one of the few out of 51 inspected unannounced by the Healthcare Commission to meet all aspects of the NHS code including MRSA and C diff rates.

Inspectors found it had bed management policies to ensure infection did not spread, training for all staff and cleaning audits for decontamination of equipment, as well as adequate handwash.

Anna Walker, the commission’s chief executive, said: “It is clear that the NHS is paying close attention to infection prevention and control.

“Trusts have made real progress with many getting good systems in place and demonstrating clear board leadership on this important issue.”

Helen Dirilen, director of nursing and infection control at Kingston Hospital, said: “This year, our MRSA and C diff infection rates have fallen significantly and we have achieved a top score for hygiene.

“I know how important cleanliness is to our patients and we should be very proud of our achievements this year.”

The hospital came third from bottom in the UK for MRSA rates in a three month period in 2005 and in April this year failed to meet a Government deadline to deep clean its wards.

It also missed out on being able to achieve semi-independent foundation trust status by one case of infection.

But by October, management was able to announce a big reduction in both MRSA and C diff cases and a Triple Green Rating from a Healthcare Commission spot check.

Sandra Berry, of patient watchdog K-Link, said: “I hope that this good news about cleanliness standards in our local hospital will go at least some way to reassure those who still question them.”