EIGHT Indian nurses have put away their books after a year studying at the University of Worcester and are now helping patients all over Worcestershire.

The experienced mental health specialists were recruited in the Indian cities of Delhi and Bangalore by the Worcestershire NHS Mental Health Trust and have now successfully completed their nurse adaptation programme qualification.

Nurse Anand Matthews, who has been a mental health nurse for the past eight years in India and Kuwait, was delighted to gain his qualification and will be working at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

"Studying at the University of Worcester has been a great opportunity," he said.

"I've had good support from my mentors and the NHS Trust, who have really helped me and my family to settle down and adapt to the new conditions.

"Working for eight years and then to come back as a student was difficult, but it has been worth every minute. Worcester is an extremely friendly place, and I'm delighted to be here."

Colin Vines, director of integrated mental health services at the NHS Trust, said: "We're delighted with the results of this recruitment campaign and I congratulate all the students on all their hard work, commitment and effort in contributing to the 100 per cent success rate on the course."

University of Worcester Vice Chancellor, Professor David Green, who presented the awards said: "It has been a pleasure to welcome such highly experienced nurses and I'm delighted that their talents will be making a real difference to the people of Worcestershire."