The latest health hero at Gobowen's Orthopaedic Hospital has been revealed.

Operating department practitioner (ODP) Rich Evans was given the award for his support with transforming the Theatres department to support with the coronavirus efforts.

Rich is part of the Anaesthetic team within theatres and was nominated by Barney Pitt, anaesthetic nurse, and admitted he was delighted.

He said: “My role has been to co-ordinate the Trust’s ODPs, making sure that they’re all up-to-speed on all of the ever-changing procedures, policies and guidance but also to check in and make sure everyone’s doing okay because it has and continues to be a tough time for everyone.

“I’ve also been trying to make sure and encourage everyone to take adequate breaks because working in full [kit] is hard-going. We need to make sure everyone’s going about their roles as comfortably as they can.

“Of course it’s a privilege to be chosen as this month’s Health Hero but I am genuinely embarrassed too because I work with an amazing team, who work incredibly hard and should all be recognised for the work they do – not just me. It’s a massive team effort up in Theatres; none of us could function without each other.”

Acting chief executive Stacey Keegan added: “I’m extremely proud to hear about all of Rich’s hard work in supporting the team through the covid-19 crisis.

“I’m thrilled to announce him as the Health Hero Award winner for July.”

Barney said: “Rich was part of the team in transforming the process and procedures in Theatres in response to the coronavirus outbreak when we took on orthopaedic trauma work, and then back to the part-return of planned surgery.

"He always conducts himself professionally, with a smile and supporting words. His calm, supportive and conscientious manner is fantastic and he is a credit to the team.

“I know he will hate the fuss, but he really deserves to win the Health Hero Award.”

The nomination from Barney was also supported by Debbie Kadum, Managing Director for the MSK Delivery Unit, and Ian MacLennan, Assistant Chief Nurse for the MSK Delivery Unit.