AN UNSUNG hero, who has been working at a local GP surgery for 17 years, has been honoured with a special award in recognition of her many years of service.

Suzanne Stace, a deputy office manager at Chineham Medical Practice won a trophy and a lunch for the whole team at the surgery after being nominated for a Practice Heroes award – a scheme that celebrates those who keep GP practices running. The competition was set up by website www.medical-supermarket.com.

Moira Clark, practice manager at Chineham Medical Practice, praised Suzanne and her attitude towards her work.

She said: “Suzanne is a long-standing and loyal member of our team. She works hard to ensure our premises are safe and in tip-top condition.

“In addition, Suzanne takes care of all of our ordering, to ensure that the practice team has all the essential medical supplies they need.”

Moira added: “Suzanne has been with the practice for 17 years, so it’s great to see all her hard work over the years recognised. She’s definitely our Practice Hero!”

The awards are given out monthly to employees at GP practices who go above and beyond.

Nick Coleman, director at the website which runs the award, said: “We are thrilled that Suzanne has won our Practice Heroes award.

“With these awards, we’re trying to recognise the hard work that goes on behind the scenes in GP practices across the country.”

Nominations are now open for February’s award. To nominate a Practice Hero email nick.coleman@ procurehealth.co.uk with a short explanation about why your nominee should be considered.