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    One of Our Finalists!

You'll find the details of the thirty shortlisted nurses below. To vote for your favourite nurse, simply click 'Cast My Vote' at the bottom of this page. Please take the time to browse through each of the categories before casting your vote.

Make sure that you submit your entry before 9th September, 2005.

Select a category above to view finalists >> Please, browse through each category before casting your final vote.

	Margaret Holtz Norfolk Carol Evans Brislington Alison Kirkham Aberdeen Frances Webb Gillingham		Alison Rutherford Gateshead Amanda Mills Northumberland Liz Strickland Barrow-in-Furness Kristine Brayford-West Stoke-on-Trent

Margaret Holtz, Norfolk

Margaret, a Health Visitor working in and around the Norfolk area, has been nominated by fellow nurse Barbara Small, for her vision, determination and enthusiasm.

Against all the odds Margaret single handily set up the first ever baby café in Norfolk to promote breast-feeding. Barbara says "Margaret didn't just talk about the idea, she set it up and got it working in record time".

Carol Evans, Brislington

Carol Evans is a Health Visitor, based at Brooklea Health Centre in Brislington. She has been nominated by Lisa Winchester of Bristol.

Lisa comments, "Carol makes you feel like a fantastic mother and that is priceless. She has been a huge help to me, especially when my son Daniel was ill, consistently paying us many more visits than she needed to. Carol is a wonderful health visitor, a superb lady and I really think she deserves to be Dettol's Community Nurse of The Year".

Alison Kirkham, Aberdeen

Alison is a Health Visitor based at Denburn Health Centre in Aberdeen. Alison has been nominated by Linda Sharpe also of Aberdeen.

Linda, sums Alison up by saying, "Alison is happy, outgoing and my life is better for knowing her". Linda has known Alison for around eight years, and in this time has never hesitated to call Alison if she is worried about one of her three children. Linda feels that Alison's complete dedication and passion to her job, combined with her 'nothing is too much trouble' approach, should be recognised.

Frances Webb, Gillingham

Frances is a Health Visitor working in the Gillingham area, Frances has been nominated for this award by Michelle Endwicker the mother of one of her patients.

Michelle says:
"Frances has made such a difference to my life and given me so much help I don't know where I would be without her. My second son was born in 2001 and shortly afterwards was diagnosed with a rare syndrome. I was completely devastated and felt we would never cope or come to terms with this. From the beginning, Frances did everything within her power to help us. Frances still takes an active interest in his well-being and I know that at times when I doubt myself, or need a shoulder to offload my worries onto, she is there. Frances has given support far beyond that required by her job."

Alison Rutherford, Gateshead

Alison is a Health Visitor from the Low Fell Clinic, Gateshead, she has been nominated for this award by Cherylene Forster also of Gateshead.

"I have nominated Alison for all she has done for me following the death of my baby girl shortly after she was born. Alison has been with me every step of the way on this long and painful journey. She has been a rock to me, with each visit helping me more on my road to recovery. Every community should have an 'Alison' - she is worth her weight in gold."

Amanda Mills , Northumberland

Amanda is a Health Visitor from Guide Post in Northumberland, she has been nominated by Sally Hodgson whose son Archie is a patient.

Sally says:
"My son Archie was born with Down's Syndrome and spent his first 11 days in the special baby unit in the hospital - since then he has required a number of hospital visits and Amanda has been by my side throughout. She has also helped me in raising money for Down's Syndrome awareness. If anyone deserves this award it is Amanda, she really has gone the extra mile."

Liz Strickland, Barrow-in-Furness

Liz is a Health Visitor working in and around the Barrow-in-Furness area, Liz was nominated by Kimberly Nelson who has benefited from her expertise.

Kimberly comments:
"No matter how small your problem or concern, Liz will always be there to help you or offer advice. She is very good with the children and an excellent nurse. I couldn't think of a better person to have as a health visitor - she's one in a million!"

Kristine Brayford-West, Stoke-on-Trent

Kristine is a Health Vistior from Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent and has been nominated by Taleem Mailin the mother of one of her patients.

Taleem says: "I was under a lot of pressure due to my daughter's health problems and did not did not feel comfortable about a stranger coming to my house. But from the first visit she has been fantastic. I was met with a big smile and since then, her visits have enabled me to talk about my worries and feel totally at ease in coping with the stresses of looking after a poorly child. Kristine has changed my life for the better and made a huge difference to me."

	Marilyn Weston Scunthorpe Jackie Fairley Falkirk Anne Ball Blaydon-on-Tyne Liz Carr Derby Nicola Bland Upminster Gwyneth Edwards Aberdare, Mid Glamorgan Julie Devine Rotherham Liz Kapoor Hemel Hempstead		Marilyn Midgley Bolton-Le-Sands Helen Mancey Stoke Meriel Chudleigh Cornwall Natasha Hudson Selby, Yorkshire Amanda Bobby Great Yarmouth, Norfolk Susan Price Bolton, Linconshire Ann Oliver Durham Helen Lydon Cottingham

Marilyn Weston, Scunthorpe

Marilyn is a Community Diabetes Specialist Nurse based in Scunthorpe North Lincolnshire, she has been nominated for the award by the Director of Primary and Community care, Karen Rhodes.

Marilyn is employed by North Lincolnshire Primary Care Trust but works as part of the multi-agency diabetes team. She has been instrumental in developing education programmes, which are having a significant impact on the quality of life of patients living with diabetes in North Lincolnshire. Marilyn is the co-author of an education programme dedicated to training Care Home staff in Diabetes Care and is a credited leader of the Warwick University Certificate in Diabetes Care, allowing her to roll out the programme in her local area.

Marilyn supports individual patients with very complex requirements and ensures that each patient is treated according to their individual needs, working with the utmost dedication and compassion.

Karen Rhodes, says, "Marilyn brings boundless enthusiasm, energy and passion to her Community Diabetes Specialist Nurse role in North Lincolnshire. Local GPs have responded extremely well to the way in which Marilyn facilitates the Warwick Certificate in Diabetes Care. They clearly have a great deal of respect for her and regularly draw on her expertise to help them to improve local diabetes care."

Jackie Fairley, Falkirk

Jackie Fairley, a District Nurse working at the Bonnybridge Health Centre, has been nominated for the award by Mrs Baird of Falkirk.

Mrs Baird comments, "Jackie is a wonderful nurse who is devoted to her patients. My husband was extremely ill following a major operation, and didn't eat for weeks. As soon as Jackie heard, she came round with lots of high protein foods and eventually got him eating. My husband became quite depressed but when Jackie came round it brightened up his day. I really hope Jackie wins this award - she truly is fantastic at her job".

Anne Ball, Blaydon-on-Tyne

Anne is a Community Practise Nurse at Shibdon House, Blaydon-on-Tyne she has been nominated for this award by patient Lynne Dodds.

According to Lynn, Anne Ball, who has been a community nurse for fifteen years, is caring and sensitive and always goes that extra mile. She even rings her patients from home to check in to see that things are ok.

Anne comments, "I enjoy the challenge of working with different people and identifying their needs. Today, my role is not only as a mental health nurse - I also deal with issues such as housing and socialisation, and this is very satisfying".

Liz Carr, Derby

Liz is a District Nurse from Lister House Surgery in Derby, Liz has been nominated by local patient Shaun Butler of Alvaston in Derby.

Liz has been a constant rock, guiding Shaun and his family through difficult times following an accident that left Shaun with a severe spinal injury.

Liz is known as a breath of fresh air, always with a smile on her face and a sympathetic ear ready to listen to any problems. She constantly strives to deliver the very best for her patients, above and beyond the call of duty.

Shaun Butler explains; "I recently had a pressure sore that Liz treated for me. I was due an operation but because of the pressure sore there was a risk it would be delayed. However, when I was admitted to the Spinal Injury Unit, the wound had been so well treated I was able to go into surgery the very next day. Liz is a nurse in a million".

Nicola Bland, Upminster

Nicola is a District Nurse from Cranham Clinic in Upminster, Liz has been nominated for the award by Bernadine Wrobel, a fellow District Nurse.

Nicola has been pivotal in setting up a local phlebotomy service for the elderly or less mobile who find it difficult to access the present hospital based blood testing areas.

Nicola's colleagues consider her to be efficient, conscientious and a great role model.

Bernadine Wrobel explains; "Nicola is an extremely busy team leader. She is a great advocate for elderly and less mobile patients, she works hard to identify and fill gaps in the service they receive. She has also studied successfully for a Masters degree in Palliative Care while continuing to work full time. Nicola is a fantastic nurse and a great role model for us all."

Gwyneth Edwards, Aberdare, Mid Glamorgan

Gwyneth has been a Community Night Nurse in Aberdare, Mid Glamorgan for the last 32 years, she has been nominated for this award by local resident Andrea Pritchard.

Gwyneth has touched countless lives - making valuable differences to hundreds of patients and their families by being on call in the middle of the night - a time when all can seem unbearable.

Andrea Pritchard explains; "Gwyneth is completely dedicated to her job and at the age of sixty and despite arthritic joints, vows to continue helping the people of Aberdare until they no longer need her. She is an outstanding nurse and a credit to her profession - always acting in the best interest of her patients. Gwyneth is someone who we are all very grateful and privileged to know."

Julie Devine, Rotherham

Julie is a Community Children's Nurse form Rotherham, she has been nominated for this award by colleagues Rachel Smith & Lesley Holmes.

Rachel comments, "Julie is an outstanding person who really cares for the children she looks after. She has a very positive approach to her work, taking it very seriously and using resources to help children and families make the most of their time together."

Lesley added:
"Julie Devine is a dedicated nurse with a high standard of professionalism. She has recently taken on the role of Team Leader for Children and Young People with Complex Care Needs, as well as still managing her own caseload. Julie has also been instrumental in setting up the recently established Community Children's Nurses on call service in Rotherham."

Liz Kapoor, Hemel Hempstead

Liz is a District Nurse working in and around the Hemel Hempstead area, she has been nominated for the award by Phyl Willis who's 96 year old mother is a patient.

Phyl says of Liz:
"Liz has shown outstanding care and consideration for my 96 year old mother. Liz's approach to all situations, serious or otherwise, is calm and professional and I know she will always respond to any messages left for her, often staying on duty many hours after her shift should have ended. I trust her to the end."

Marilyn Midgley, Bolton-Le-Sands

Marilyn is a Community Staff Nurse, she has been nominated by colleague Elaine Stock.

Elaine explains, "In my work I come into contact with a number of Marilyn's patients. It is clear she possesses an extra special caring nature, which makes her patients feel good when she visits. Regardless of how busy she is, Marilyn always makes time for them, often carrying out small tasks beyond the call of duty. She is always ready to provide advice, support and a listening ear if necessary - not just to the patients, but also to all her colleagues."

Helen Mancey, Stoke

Helen is a Community Nurse working at Stoke Health Centre, she has been nominated by patient Anne Lovett of Hadfields.

Helen comments: "Helen may be small in stature but she is huge in compassion, determination and energy. Helen has been a great strength to me and my family, always bringing with her a smile and a hug. When I was in and out of hospital it was Helen's passion towards her work and the NHS which helped me through. I can only thank Helen for her support and I will always remember what she used to say - 'ring me if you need me'".

Meriel Chudleigh, Cornwall

Meriel has been a Community Nurse in Cornwall for the past 15 years, she has been nominated by Mr E Chapman of Lostwithiel.

Mr Chapman comments, "Meriel is loved by everybody she serves due to her considerable care and attention. She turned my life around after I was extremely ill. She is a delightful lady who gets embarrassed if you thank her and I think she definitely measures up for the award of Dettol Community Nurse of the Year".

Natasha Hudson, Selby, Yorkshire

Natasha is a District Nurse at the Posterngate surgery, Selby. Natasha has been nominated by patient, Helen Tucker of Brayton, Selby.

Helen says, "Without Natasha's professionalism, care and support I don't know how I would get through the day. Natasha's kindness and reassurance helped me in the early weeks, keeping me positive and cheerful throughout my illness. Natasha is truly a special person, a credit to the nursing profession, she thoroughly deserves to win this award for all the extra effort she goes to for her patients".

Amanda Bobby, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Amanda is a Community Nurse working in and around the Great Yarmouth area and has been nominated by one of her patient's daughters, Denise Brown.

Denise's father suffers from vascular dementia and she comments, "Amanda has made such a difference to my dad. She is always one step ahead - listening, thinking, then reacting to all our problems, queries and concerns. If it wasn't for Amanda we just couldn't cope. She is a star!"

Susan Price, Bolton, Linconshire

Susan is a Community Nurse based at Westside Surgery in Boston, she was nominated by one of patients, Terrie Lowe.

Terrie says, "Susan is a nurse in a million, she knows how to cheer you up when you are down. She knows how to listen when I need to talk. Even though she has a heavy case load she always seems to have time for me and she makes me feel like I am her only patient. No matter where you see her; at home, in the surgery, in the street, out shopping, on or off duty your welfare is her concern.

I was so embarrassed by the fact that my illness included incontinence but Susan has shown me in the best possible way to cope and take control, Susan has even given me the confidence to joke about it! At the risk of sounding corny she is an angel!"

Ann Oliver, Durham

Ann is a Community Nurse who works at the University Science Park, Durham. She has been nominated by one of her colleagues, Paula Daily for her dedication and commitment to her job.

Paula comments, "During the past 5 years I have worked with and managed Ann. In that time I have been continually impressed with the passion and enthusiasm she has for her job. Ann goes out of her way to provide high quality nursing care and this is reflected in the letters from patients I have received. The theme running through them all is that Ann always goes above and beyond the call of duty. The most endearing aspect of Ann is that she would not expect this award and would say that she is "just doing her job".

Helen Lydon, Cottingham

Helen is a Respiratory Nurse Specialist working from Castle Hill Hospital. Helen has been nominated by Frederick Reeve for her outstanding commitment and care throughout his illness.

Frederick, who suffers from respiratory problems, feels indebted to Helen for her exceptional care over the years. Frederick says Helen always puts other people first and constantly goes that extra mile for all of her patients. Above all, Frederick is grateful for her skills in single handily managing his illness, enabling him to lead a better life.

	Karen Purvis Scunthorpe Carol Saaler Huddersfield Wendy Middleton Bradford		Gillian Ridley Birmingham Rita Hunter Preston Pam James Dudley

Karen Purvis, Scunthorpe

Karen Purvis is a Midwife at Scunthorpe General Hospital. She has been nominated by Rachel Brothwell also of Scunthorpe.

Rachel met Karen whilst pregnant with her second child. In and out of hospital throughout her pregnancy, Karen was always there, reassuring Rachel and offering advice and support. At 36 weeks (4 weeks early), Rachel went into labour whilst sitting on the loo! Unable to move as in so much pain, Rachel dialled the delivery room from her mobile phone and Karen arrived after just five minutes, closely followed by an ambulance.

When Karen got there she had to carry Rachel into the bedroom to examine her, before the ambulance arrived to take her to the delivery suite. After two hours, Rachel was sent home and returned at 39 weeks to be induced. Maddison Lucy was born that evening and Karen was there to make sure everything went well. Rachel will always remember how much support and encouragement she received from all of the nurses on the delivery ward, in particular Karen.

Carol Saaler, Huddersfield

Carol is a Midwife at Almondbury Surgery, Huddersfield. Carol has been nominated by patient Jenny Womack.

Jenny says that Carol was a fantastic support to her when she miscarried. "I don't think I could have got through those weeks without Carol. She understood my depression and anxieties, when I needed her she was always there to lend her support. Carol is a fantastic lady and a brilliant Nurse, I hope that she is awarded the title of Dettol Community Nurse of the Year as I think she is already!"

Wendy Middleton, Bradford

Wendy Middleton is a Midwife in Bradford and a Neonatal Outreach Midwife at Bradford Royal Infirmary. She was nominated by patient Claire Jackson who has received support from Wendy following the birth of her premature baby.

Claire says; "Being a first-time mum is scary enough but being a first-time mum to a premature baby is such a shock - he was born at 26 weeks and weighed just 1lb 6oz, with a list of things wrong with him. Wendy introduced herself to me whilst Ben was still in the premature baby unit and took an interest in his progress. When he came home she visited me regularly and instilled me with the confidence to look after him. She was also at the end of the phone whenever I needed her - nothing was too much trouble. She was even there for me when Ben was discharged from her care. Ben is 13 months now and has got over his initial difficulties although he is still very small - he weighs only 13lb 11oz. Through this time, I don't know what I would've done without Wendy - she's been my rock."

Gillian Ridley, Birmingham

Gillian Ridley is a Midwife at Ante-natal Clinic Women's Hospital, Birmingham. Gillian was nominated by her sister Susan Bloor.

Susan says. "My sister had always wanted to be a nurse but never really had the opportunity until she was in her late 30's. Despite all the odds being against her such as bringing up her two children on her own and running her home, she qualified as a SRN, but then realised that what she really wanted to be was a midwife and so, continued with her training and is now a fully qualified midwife. We are all so proud of her, all her hard work during her studying when at times it was so hard for her because of her situation. It has paid off as she has now achieved her lifetime ambition. She is totally dedicated to her work, it is lovely to see her looking so happy and fulfilled and I am sure that the ladies she will look after during her career will benefit so much from having my sister as their midwife."

Rita Hunter, Preston

Rita is a Midwife working in the Sharoe Green Unit, Royal Preston Hospital, Preston, she was nominated by her patient Amanda Carpenter.

Amanda says, "Rita is an Inspiration" said a student midwife to me and she clearly is. Through sheer determination she trained as a midwife, starting out as an auxiliary despite having 8 children! Shortly after I had a blood transfusion which Rita suggested. My son was then diagnosed with Jaundice and needed a course of phototherapy. I felt quite disheartened as I had given birth to him on Sunday and it was now Thursday. Everyone in the ward seemed to be leaving the day after they had delivered which was increasing my upset. Rita suggested that I should be placed in a single room so that I didn't see other mums coming into the ward and then leaving. This immediately lifted my spirits"

Pam James, Dudley

Pam James, a community midwife from Dudley, has been nominated by Louise Kelly, of Coseley. Louise was a student midwife under Pam, and also had her first child delivered by her.

Pam says, "As a student midwife Pam took me under her wing - she was so kind and inspired me to learn. When I became pregnant, Pam began to care for me. During labour there were serious complications - I cannot tell you how swiftly, calmly and professionally Pam acted to save my baby. Even now five and a half months later Pam still calls round to see us. Every single person that has been cared for by Pam has positive admiration for her - she is an amazing person."

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