A NURSE has been named as Poole Hospital’s first ever NHS Hero after being nominated for the new national award by a grateful patient.

Sarah Morris, a pre-operative assessment nurse, was presented with a certificate signed by the chief executive of the NHS Sir David Nicholson.

The patient who nominated her praised her “hard work, care and attention”, adding: “She is so pleasant, helpful and reassuring and goes more than that extra mile.”

Poole Hospital Trust chairman Angela Schofield and chief executive Chris Bown also presented long service awards to 15 members of staff able to attend the ceremony.

They were among 30 who have each chalked up 25 years of service, making a grand total of 750 years between them.

Those attending ranged from midwives and nurses to a clinical scientist, an information analyst and staff working the administrative and clerical roles.

Angela said: “Presenting long service and the special NHS Heroes awards is one of the most pleasurable things I get to do as chairman each year.

“It is a tremendous achievement to give so much to the NHS, and on behalf of Poole Hospital this outstanding contribution is noted with great thanks.

“I am also delighted to be able to help recognise our first ever NHS Hero, in Sarah Morris, who clearly delivers above and beyond expectations.”