HEALTH bosses have praised eight “health heroes” who have gone beyond the call of duty with a special award.

NHS South West Essex handed out the awards to deserving health workers who were nominated by their patients and colleagues for their selfless dedication to the job.

The awards were given out by the health trust’s chairman Derek Morrison at its annual general meeting.

Mr Morrison said: “Every day doctors, nurses and healthcare workers help to save lives and improve the health of hundreds of people.

“It has given me great pleasure to have been able to recognise the good work of the eight individuals who received awards today.”

Winners included Dr Al-Dujaily, Oncology specialist at Basildon Hospital, who was nominated by a patient for being a tower of strength during a patient’s two-and- a-half year battle with cancer.

Elizabeth Carpenter, midwife co-ordinator at Basildon Hospital, was nominated by colleagues for going above and beyond the call of duty on a daily basis.

Stephanie Norman, occupational therapy assistant at Mayflower day hospital, in Billericay, is another health hero for her tireless work in and out of working hours, which includes setting up an outreach group for patients.

Dr Sarfraz, a GP at South Green Surgery, in Billericay, was also given recognised for providing excellent care over the past 15 years.

Another GP, Dr Hopcroft, who is based at Laindon Health Centre, was also named for being a supportive and helpful GP over the last 20 years.

He was praised for being sensitive to the cultural needs of patients, and going out of his way to make sure patients see female consultants when referred on to hospital if required.