A former nurse has received the highest honour bestowed to members for service to the Royal College of Nursing.
Vanessa Martin retired to Sandgreen near Gatehouse after a prestigious nursing career in cleft services.
During her time, beginning as a clinical nurse specialist, she established the first education programme for nursing children with clefts and received awards for her work in supporting the families of children with cleft lip and palate.
In retirement, Vanessa, who is now 77, has ensured her passion for nursing is shared through her work with the Dumfries and Galloway branch of the RCN where she has been secretary for five years.
And she has now been presented with the Award of Merit at the RCN Congress in Glasgow.
Vanessa said: “I am truly honoured to receive this award and recognition from RCN.
“It’s been a privilege to work with and support nursing colleagues in the Dumfries and Galloway branch to encourage them to engage with the college and speak up for our profession.
“We are a team and I have received a great deal of support myself from nursing colleagues and the RCN.”
Vanessa has been described as a “linchpin” for the Dumfries and Galloway branch and members were keen to see her recognised for her leadership, experience and commitment.
Chairman of the RCN Scotland board, Julie Lamberth, said: “Nursing is in Vanessa’s blood.
“I’m delighted that Vanessa’s commitment has been recognised with the award of merit.”
