A TEAM of architects has won an award at a national competition that has yet to be judged.

DWA Architects swept the board in one section of the 2007 Healthcare Design Awards.

The York company secured the three shortlisted spaces in the elderly and contemporary care section.

The architect's designs for care homes in London, Watford and Oxford were voted the best by judges.

DWA Architects chief executive David Ward said: "It is always good to win an award, and even better to know you have won before the decision is announced."

Two other designs by the company were shortlisted in the regeneration category and the care home extension section.

The shortlisted schemes will be visited by judges next month to determine the winners.