THE achievements of NHS nurses, doctors and support staff were celebrated at a ceremony on November 30, with Olympic rower Zac Purchase on hand to congratulate winners and present awards.

An audience of 200 people celebrated as Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust awarded 21 members of staff and teams, including several from Redditch’s Alexandra Hospital, for their outstanding achievements.

More than 150 nominations were received from staff and patients during October and November.

Shortlisted staff were invited to the awards ceremony at the Charles Hastings Education Centre, where Zac Purchase shared his own success story and presented awards alongside chairman Harry Turner and event sponsors.

Mr Turner said: “It’s been a challenging year for anyone who works in the NHS, and it is so important we take time out to pay tribute to our staff who work so hard to provide the best possible experience, treatment and care for our patients.

“I can think of no better way to celebrate your outstanding achievements.”

The oncology team at the Alex won the customer service award for their care, compassion and focus towards their patients. Their phenomenal drive and determination saw the chemotherapy Garden Suite sustain an excellent service during a recent refurbishment.

Fay Lanham, lead oncology nurse said: "We all work very hard together, it's an all-round team effort. It’s fantastic to be recognised."

Other awards included volunteer of the year to Sandra and Andy Silver for their dedication and assistance on Ward 14. 

Switchboard operators at the Alex won non-clinical team of the year for always being helpful, polite and keen to try and solve a query rather than handing it on or avoiding the issues.

Zac Purchase tweeted after the event “Great evening with @WorcsAcuteNHS! Some fantastic awards to some highly deserving people!”