A Bradford doctor is to receive the Mauritian equivalent of an MBE after being selected for the honour by the country’s Prime Minister.

Dr Sulleman Moreea was in his home country when the list of people receiving the Grand Officer of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean was officially announced.

His award is for contribution in the medical field and he is one of only 14 people to be honoured.

Dr Moreea, a consultant gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Bradford Royal Infirmary, visits the country four times a year, in his own time and at his own expense, to train medics about gastrointestinal endoscopy.

He has also been working with the Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam and Minister for Health to establish five specialised units.

Dr Moreea was called by Mr Ramgoolam, who told him about the honour.

Speaking from Mauritius, the doctor said: “He rang and told me he was going to reward me for this medal. I phoned up my colleagues and all of them said I needed to be in Mauritius. They’ve taken all my responsibilities this week and have told me I need to be here when the list comes out so I can share this with my family and friends.”

The impromptu trip was one of the rare occasions Dr Moreea has returned home and not been working. He said he was enjoying the warm weather and spending time with relatives.

He will return in June to be presented with the medal.