A CALL handler who goes above and beyond the call of duty has been honoured with a prestigious award.

Beverley Morris, who answers NHS 111 calls at the call centre in Middlebrook, Horwich, took home the prize for NHS 111 Frontline Staff Member of the Year at the fifth annual Going the Extra Mile awards last month.

The awards, hosted by North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust (NWAS) celebrate the inspirational stories of staff members who put in extra effort to benefit patients.

The person who nominated Beverley for her prize described her as an “excellent” call handler with an “exemplary” attitude and approach, particularly during busy times.

The 46-year-old, who lives in Leigh, said: “I was so surprised to get the email saying I had been nominated for the award and was happy just to be invited to the event — I never thought I would actually win it as the other nominees were both brilliant.

“Unfortunately I was not able to attend on the night due to my youngest son being admitted to hospital, so I found out I had won by text.

“I am really grateful for the award, it means a lot to me that colleagues took the time to put my name forward.”

Over 150 guests attended the prizegiving at Ribby Hall Village in Lancashire, which was entirely paid for by donations from sponsors.

Most of the awards were nominated by their colleagues and winners were selected by NWAS bosses before prizes were handed out on the night by presenter and radio DJ Glen Hunt.

Bob Williams, chief executive of NWAS, said: “The actions of our staff and volunteers are truly inspirational and I am extremely proud to lead this organisation which boasts many individuals who work tirelessly, both on the frontline and behind the scenes, to provide the best service for our patients.”