Four members of staff at Airedale Hospital have been officially recognised as NHS Heroes for going the extra mile to improve life for patients.

Paediatric dietician Angela Freeman, heart failure specialist nurse Tracey Hellawell, staff nurse Tracy Day and staff nurse in paediatrics Donna Ashcroft were nominated in a national scheme as part of the NHS’s 64th anniversary celebrations, to highlight the achievements of staff who show exceptional compassion, kindness and skill above and beyond the call of everyday duty.

More than 70 members of staff and teams were nominated across Yorkshire and Humber by patients, their families and NHS colleagues between July and September.

Tracy Day, who has recently been working in end-of-life care, was described as ‘a dedicated staff nurse who always put the needs of patients above her own’ and as being ‘always willing to learn and improve her knowledge and is a positive presence.’ Angela Freeman, who has more than 30 years of experience as a paediatric dietician, was described as ‘exceptionally committed, hardworking, very caring, totally reliable and very popular with immense respect from colleagues and a very special gift when dealing with children.’ Tracey Hellawell is the Trust’s only heart failure nurse and has a very large caseload. She was nominated for giving ‘more than would ever be expected of her. She not only cares for her patients, she always ensures she is available to mentor others.’ Donna Ashcroft was nominated by the family of a young patient she provided care for. The patient said that she ‘went that extra mile just to make sure that I as a patient went home happy.’ Airedale’s four NHS Heroes were presented with a certificate during a ceremony as part of a meeting of staff at the hospital.

Bridget Fletcher, chief executive of Airedale NHS Trust, said: “I am delighted that four of our members of staff have been recognised in this way for giving the best possible healthcare and going beyond the call of everyday duty.

“Providing top-quality healthcare is not just about saving lives, it’s often the small things that make a huge difference to people when they are being looked after through their most difficult times – and we know these are what families often remember for the rest of their lives.”