Nurse given national award for 36 years of service

Paul Johnson works on a neurosurgery ward at Hull Royal Infirmary

A nurse who has dedicated 36 years caring for neurosurgery patients in Hull has been given a national award in recognition of his long service.

Paul Johnson who works on a neurosurgical unit at Hull Royal Infirmary has received a NHS Chief Nursing Officer Gold Award.

He retired from his role taking charge of the hospital's neurosurgical ward in January, but then returned the next day to work part time on the same ward as a regular staff nurse, the NHS said.

Mr Johnson said he was "totally taken aback" when he received his award at a surprise ceremony at the hospital on Friday.

Mr Johnson praised his team and said he would not have got his award "if it weren't for the team"

"I don't feel I deserve it because it's not just about me, it's about everybody," he said.

"I wouldn't have got this award if it weren't for the team behind closed doors, who people don't see, that help me out and make my job so much easier."

Mr Johnson began his career in Hull in 1989 and worked in a number of departments before specialising in neurosurgery care.

The NHS said the award was to recognise "his contribution to the NHS, in particular the care he has provided for an often complex group of patients and the support and mentorship he's shown to his staff".

He said he came out of retirement and returned to nursing because he loved "looking after people".

"I love talking to people, getting to know people and their backgrounds, and seeing them get better," he added.

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