HARDWORKING staff and volunteers have clinched top service awards.

The Redditch and Bromsgrove Primary Care Trust (PCT) held its annual meeting and five staff members were recognised for serving at least 25 years in the NHS.

They all received a certificate, badge and gift to commemorate their achievement.

In addition the Princess of Wales Community Hospital League of Friends, WRVS and Primrose Hospice received recognition for their contributions in the Year of the Volunteer. Two volunteers with the PCT also received recognition.

The annual meeting, held last Tuesday, began with PCT directors describing some of the achievements during the three years of its existence.

This included the refurbishment of Catshill clinics and the additional car park and better security lighting at the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove.

Group chairman Graham Vickery said: "I am delighted we have recognised the staff and volunteers at our annual meeting. Our staff are our biggest asset and it's really nice to say thank you to them

"The voluntary sector are a crucial partner in the services the PCT offers and again I was delighted to be able to recognise them."

He added: "We have had a challenging three years as a PCT, but I firmly believe we have made a difference to the care of people in Redditch and Bromsgrove.

"In particular I should like to mention the development of the palliative care unit at the Princess of Wales Community Hospital, which was opened last year, and the extension of the hours to the minor injuries unit," he added.