Outstanding achievements, dedication and quality care were celebrated at this year’s James Paget University Hospital’s Remarkable People awards.

More than 200 guests attended a glittering awards ceremony, held at Potters Leisure Resort on Friday night (October 14).

This year saw a record number of nominations from both patients and staff for the awards, which are now in their fifth year.

This year’s event also saw the first presentation of the Chairman and Chief Executive Commendation, which went to two winners: domestic assistant Garry Berrisford and director of post-graduate medical education, Matt Williams. Members of the respiratory team picked up their second major accolade of the year, after being named Respiratory Team of the Year in the summer by the Association of Respiratory Nurse Specialists (ARNS).

Team leader Heather Matthews said the whole team were proud and delighted to pick up the Team of the Year award.

“It was a genuine surprise when we received the award from ARNS – and it was a genuine surprise tonight too,” she said. “This has really made our year. To be recognised nationally is an honour – but to be presented with an award from your colleagues and patients is something really special.”

Clinical individual of the year Melanie Taylor said: “It’s a great honour to receive this award – and I could not have achieved it without my colleagues and family.”

This year’s EDP Patients’ Choice award went to Sharon Plant, for her outstanding and compassionate care for stroke patients and their families.

The award came as a total shock to her – and husband Nigel, who works at the hospital as a cardiac nurse, was in on the surprise.

“I couldn’t believe it as my husband told me he was in line for an award – but it was me!” she said. “When they read out my name, I thought they had got it wrong.”

Employee of the year Tracey Bareford, of the specialist palliative care team, was also delighted to receive an award.

She said: “It’s a privilege to work with such a fantastic team – and at a great hospital, which has given me the chance to help people and do something I really love”.

Chief executive, Christine Allen, said: “Once again, this special event has given us the opportunity to celebrate our fantastic staff, who show such dedication, commitment and care, each and every day.

“This year saw a record number of nominations, which demonstrates that not only are the Remarkable People awards going from strength-to-strength but also that there are so many examples of innovation and quality across our hospital.

“I would like to congratulate all the winners and finalists – and thank everyone involved for making this event such a success.”

Trust chairman David Wright added: “Remarkable People allows us to focus on the fantastic members of staff who help make our hospital such a great place to work.

“In an NHS which is all too often dominated by increasing demand and dwindling resources, it is really important to take time to recognise and celebrate the people who place the patient at the heart of all they do.”

The ceremony included a three course meal, a raffle and disco. This year’s event was sponsored by Lings Motor Group and Birketts. The Trust would like to the sponsors and all the individuals and organisations who donated prizes to the raffle.