THE inspirational heroes of Worcestershire’s hospitals who have transformed the lives of patients have received awards.

The dedication of staff – from doctors through to nurses, volunteers, managers and specialist teams – were celebrated at the biggest ever staff achievements awards.

The awards marked achievements by staff and volunteers working in Worcestershire’s three main hospitals, Worcestershire Royal in Worcester, the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.

Among the winners were Emma Stallard, who won the Nurse of the Year Award after she recorded the progress of a newborn baby called Joseph after his mother suffered a heart attack during the birth.

His mother was ill for weeks in intensive care while Joseph was cared for in the neonatal intensive care unit at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

As a nursery nurse, Mrs Stallard was responsible for looking after him and began an album which recorded Joseph’s daily life with pictures and words, stories and important details.

This included photos of Joseph and staff and, whenever possible, pictures of him with his mum.

Sue Hatt, the community midwife who nominated her, said: “Her actions made a huge difference to a very sick mum who was too poorly to look after her baby.

“Mum has no memory of the time following the birth. After she received the album in the post when she was well enough to go home, she was thrilled that she was able to show family and friends this treasured keepsake.”

The awards event, titled ‘Hospital Heroes’ held at the Gainsborough House Hotel, Kidderminster, was attended by 230 staff.

Trust chairman Michael O’Riordan said: “The stories of the individuals and teams on the final shortlists make remarkable reading.

“They range from initiatives on the cutting edge of healthcare technology to years of quiet devotion to patient care.”