An audiologist at Airedale General Hospital has received recognition in a national competition for the fifth year in a row.

Alan Walshaw, who cares for those with hearing difficulties, has received another certificate of commendation in recognition of his achievement in the UK Audiologist of the Year award – the only person to be commended in the awards for five consecutive years.

Mr Walshaw, 46, a senior audiologist who has worked at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust for eight years, said: “I’m pretty lucky that people have taken the trouble to nominate me, as people are often quicker to say something negative. It also benefits the hospital by showing it in a positive light.”

Run by the hearing aid battery manufacturer Rayovac and hearing industry publishing group Audio Infos, the competition is judged independently by a panel of leading industry experts.

It is voted for by hard of hearing people across the UK who wish to reward professionals who go the extra mile to help patients.