Staff who have clocked up a 1,750 years’ worth of service between them were honoured today at Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust’s annual long-service awards.

More than 70 members of staff who reached key milestones were commended and thanked for the contribution they had made to patient care.

The trust’s chief executive, Richard Mitchell, and chairman John MacDonald presented staff with a commemorative certificate and pin badge as a token of the trust’s appreciation at the ceremony at King’s Mill Hospital, Sutton.

One of the award winners, clinical typist Marilyn Jones, has worked at the trust for 45 years.

She began at the old Mansfield General Hospital in September 1972.

She said: “It has been an absolutely lovely day and made me feel so special and appreciated to be recognised, especially when my award was announced and was described as ‘an amazing 45 years’.

“When I had my son 28 years ago I decided to take a five-year career break. That lasted just nine months and I went back to work at King’s Mill, where I’ve been ever since.

“The trust has been a fantastic place to work and has always been accommodating throughout my time here, especially when my three children were younger. I’ve seen lots of changes and it really is a great place to work.”

Richard Mitchell said: “Our staff are the lifeblood of our organisation and we want to recognise staff who show commitment and dedication to the work they do.

“Some of the people receiving awards today have dedicated all of their working life to Sherwood Forest Hospitals and supporting patient care, which is outstanding and something I am grateful for.

“Everyone who received an award should be very proud of themselves. We know that so many of our staff are committed to the work they do and it is important we support them in their roles.”

More than 70 members of staff were recognised at the event for reaching milestones of five, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years.

Marilyn Jones us pictured receiving her award from Sherwood Forest Hospitals Trust’s John MacDonald, left, and Richard Mitchell.