A newly-qualified nurse has been recognised for her care of patients at Lister Hospital with a prestigious prize.

Charlene Hollingworth has been awarded the University of Hertfordshire’s Elaine Andrews Prize for the ‘most caring nurse’ of the year.

The 31-year-old from Letchworth is based at the emergency department of the hospital in Coreys Mill Lane, Stevenage.

Charlene had been working in accounting departments for various firms since the age of 18 but decided in 2007 to pursue her dream career by attending night school and going on to gain the necessary entry qualifications.

She moved to Herts in 2011 to complete a nursing degree, graduating earlier this year.

On winning the award, Charlene said: “I was overwhelmed to be nominated for the award, and never thought I would win.

“I came into nursing to make a difference to the people around me and trained in several roles across the NHS Trust.

“The team here are so supportive and I love working in the Lister’s emergency department.

“As nurses, we face challenges on a daily basis – our patients are in an environment that can be frightening for them, especially when they are not well. Being there to support and reassure our patients can make a big difference to them.

“I feel we are privileged to do the job we do.”

Angela Thompson, the hospital’s director of nursing, said: “We are delighted that Charlene has been awarded the Elaine Andrews Prize.

“We are always so pleased when a group of new nurses graduate and choose to carry on working with us. Charlene is an exceptional nurse and we are very proud to have her on the team.”