Two volunteers who have given 40 years of service to the James Paget University Hospital have been presented with certificates marking their achievement.

Volunteers at the Gorleston hospital were invited to a special Christmas coffee morning event held at the Louise Hamilton Centre on Wednesday, December 13.

They enjoyed the opportunity to meet with colleagues from across the hospital for light refreshments and a catch-up.

Volunteer co-ordinator John Gilligan, and others, thanked the volunteers for everything they do to support patients, staff and visitors.

Head of patient experience and engagement Amanda Hood told the volunteers: “We are very aware of all the hard work you do and the positive impact you have on patient experience and we’d like to say thank you for the support you provide.”

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After a Christmas sing-along, there was also a special presentation to two of the volunteers, Dusty Miller and Iain Ferguson, who have given four decades of service to the hospital, and the chaplaincy team in particular.

Deputy chief nurse Jacky Copping - who made the presentations to the two stalwart volunteers - told them: “I’ve been working for the trust for 39 years so not only have you beaten me in long-service terms I’ve been able to see the input you have given to patients, staff and relatives over the years and how this means so much.  

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"Never be in doubt about your value to the hospital, and I want to thank you and wish you all a merry Christmas.”

Dusty Miller, who is now 88 years old and a much loved figure at the hospital and in the wider community, said: “It’s a privilege to be here. It’s been a long journey that started as a prayer group and evolved into Chaplaincy volunteer work.

"The James Paget has always been my passion and I’ve loved working with patients and staff here – thank you for a wonderful experience.”