'She is the best advocate any patient could want'

Chief Executive Kevin McNamara honours Sharon Cornwell's achievement.

A nurse has marked a major milestone with 50 years of service in the NHS.

In 1980, Sharon Cornwell became the youngest sister to be employed at Cheltenham General Hospital (CGH) in Gloucestershire at just 23 years old.

Throughout her career she has performed a variety of roles at CGH and Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, she went on to open one of the first surgical assessment areas in the country.

Many of her colleagues agree if they were ever unwell, Sharon would be their first choice of nurse.

Ms Cornwell began her student nurse training the day after her 18th birthday in 1975

In 1975, Ms Cornwell attended student nurse training at Cheltenham General Hospital the day after her 18th birthday and worked on the wards until she was fully qualified.

Over the years, she worked in a variety of roles including, staff nurse, night sister (Now the Acute Care Response Team), ward manager and site manager.

Ms Cornwell became ward manager of Prescott Ward in 1998.

Kevin McNamara, Chief Executive, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said that "across five decades she has been admired, respected and valued.

"Her career is a testament to professionalism, commitment and care," he said.