A NURSE from Basingstoke has been honoured at an annual award ceremony that showcases the best in the country.

Emma Bleasdale, formerly Stowell and originally from Cliddesden, won the Nurse of the Year award at the Nursing Times Awards 2017 held at Grosvenor House, London, on November 2.

Emma, 43, works as a perinatal team leader at Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice in West Yorkshire, looking after children with life-shortening illnesses and their families.

Previously, Emma trained in Leeds General Infirmary, and St James’ Hospital, becoming a sister after 10 years.

After four years of work following joining in 2013, Emma now manages a team of six people to provide support and care.

Paul Stowell, Emma’s dad, said: “It was amazing to see that she had been nominated, and getting on the shortlist from so many people. I was coming to the event, win or lose, and it was well worth it.

“It was an absolutely incredible atmosphere to be in, with more than a thousand people on their feet applauding Emma and the other worthy winners of the awards.

“It was the best night of my life to see Emma got the recognition she deserves. Standing up on the balcony, seeing her name on the big screen, and feeling the impact of the room. It was incredible.”

Nurses and organisations from across the country were honoured across 23 awards categories, including Nurse of the Year. The 11 trusts that came to the aid of people after the London and Manchester terror attacks received a special recognition award for their help.

There were 200 fellow nurses who were nominated for the award, before the list was narrowed to 11 people.

Paul added: “I thought she was in with a good chance. Especially after making it through those stages, going from hundreds of people to just 11 is amazing. She was also up against people from bigger organisations, so it was incredible to see her win.”

Emma’s seven-year-old daughter came to the event as well as Paul, who was there alongside two of Emma’s team from the hospice.