Bristol nursery nurse congratulated for 45 years of service

Sue Sheriton celebrated the milestone with her colleagues

A hospital nursery nurse who has made a "huge difference to many families" has celebrated 45 years of service.

Sue Sheriton, from south Bristol, works at St Michael's Hospital in the city.

Her colleagues on ward 76 described her as "absolutely amazing and invaluable" and marked the milestone by buying her flowers, a card and a cake.

"It's been a privilege looking after mums and dads in Bristol. I've learned lots of different things," said Ms Sheriton.

After qualifying as a nursery nurse, her early career saw her work as a cleaner and in a cinema.

It was only when she realised that not working in nursing was a "waste of experience" that she made the transition into her current role.

Her duties involve caring for and looking after newborn babies, feeding them, and helping new parents navigate their first few days with children.

Bathed, cuddled and cared

Reflecting on her time in the job, she said: "Every day you go to work and feel like you've helped somebody.

"You've learned something new from people because you get valuable experience from parents as well - especially from different cultures."

Despite having two children of her own and six grandchildren, Ms Sheriton has no intention of leaving her role.

"If I stopped working now and I didn't meet people, I think it would drive me crazy," she said.

The hospital paid tribute to Ms Sheriton's dedication, knowledge and hard work, saying she had "bathed, cuddled and cared for so many of the babies born in Bristol over the years".