Conquest staff awarded for long service

They received certificates to acknowledge service of 20 and 30 years, as well as individual educational success.

At the event organised by East Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust, which also runs Eastbourne DGH, 78 members of staff received awards for 20 years' service and 27 for 30 years'.

Irene Dibben, trust chairman, said: "I would like to congratulate the long service staff for the dedication they have shown over the years.

"Their cumulative years represent literally hundreds of years of service to local people and are a notable cause for celebration.

"We also acknowledged the achievements of staff who have gained educational success. The certificates, diplomas and degrees they have obtained are the only visible sign of months, sometimes years, of study and preparation, often against the odds.

"Study is not easy, it makes demands on time and competes against other attractions but above all requires application, commitment and sustained effort.

"As a trust we thank all staff for their loyalty, dedication and ability to cope under all extremes. The care and compassion they offer local patients is exceptional and they are a credit to the trust and their efforts are much appreciated."