A HOSPITAL department has been praised for its "exceptional service."

Clare Panniker, chief executive of Basildon Hospital, handed out a special staff award to employees in the bowel cancer screening unit after a patient complimented them on their reassuring attitude, ability to answer questions, organisational skills, and empathy and kindness.

The patient described the unit as "a credit to the hospital and the trust."

Presenting the award to the team, Mrs Panniker said: “I understand you receive lots of letters like this in the department every month, so it’s lovely that you are finally getting some public recognition for the excellent service you provide."

This month's staff awards also saw John Itter, a technician with the medical equipment management service, recognised for rushing to the rescue of a man who collapsed in the hospital grounds.

Ross Livermore, 74, from Brentwood, fell to the ground unconscious after he had a heart attack while making his way to the outpatient unit.

Without swift action his brain cells would have started to die, but luckily Mr Itter spotted him and rushed to the scene to put him in the recovery position.

He carried out CPR until the A&E team arrived- ultimately saving Mr Livermore's life.

His colleagues commended Mr Itter for his quick-thinking.

During the monthly award ceremony, Mrs Panniker added: “I think most people in the trust now know about your heroic actions John, and this is an incredibly well deserved award.”