South Hams Hospital were celebrating the work of their nurses on Friday for International Nurses Day.

Nicky Stidever, District Nurse Team Manager from Live Well South West is touring all of the Live Well South West hospitals, wards and clinics, and her first stop was South Hams Hospital in Kingsbridge.

Two nurses were nominated for special recognition, being presented with a lantern, similar to that used by Florence Nightingale, on whose birthday International Nurses Day takes place.

Matron Di Green nominated Sally Scarff, a registered nurse, saying that even though she is new to the post, just a couple of months, she has already seen the commitment and compassion that Sally has for her patients and has seen how she supports her peers.

Talking about International Nurses Day, Di added that it was “really nice to be recognised” for all the work they do day in and day out to look after people.

Accepting her nomination, Sally said: “I had worked at Kingsbridge Hospital for a year, I came from the community but since working for Live Well South West, I have gained a promotion and gained knowledge in theory and practical from my peers.

“The support of the team here at South Hams Hospital has been fantastic and every day we are improving standards to a higher level.”

Kingsbridge District Nurse Manager Kate Snook nominated Penny Yeoman, a community registered nurse. Kate said “I have nominated Penny because she is a hardworking nurse, dedicated to putting patients first. She will go the extra mile and has a great sense of humour as well as a kind and compassionate nature. ?“She is highly regarded by colleagues and patients alike, and one particular reason for her nomination is that she takes on challenges and thinks outside the box. She is definitely a can-do person, which has a positive influence on staff and patients alike.”

Penny said: “I have been working as a community nurse for the last 24 years and I can honestly say it is the best job in the world.

“It is a privilege to be able to visit a patient in their own home, gain their trust and sometimes form friendships, and help them through difficult times. The team in which I work are wonderful, we all support each other and they are all dear friends as well as colleagues.”

Nicky said: “Today we wish to pay tribute to all our nurses in Live Well South West. This is a way of expressing our gratitude for all your great work. As a nurse you are committed, always putting the patient first and at the forefront of what you do.

“Nursing is a vocation and a selfless profession, signifying commitment, passion and resilience. Every day we value your contributions, as you spend your day caring for others.”