Bolton's NHS Foundation Trust has thanked the people who conduct clinical trials for the work they do in improving the service offered by the NHS.

This has coincided with Clinical Trials Day on May 20 to recognise the people that conduct these vital trials.

This day also provides the research community with an opportunity to raise awareness of the work they do.

Fiona Noden, the Trust's Chief Executive, said: "As we all pull together to combat COVID-19, research has never been more important.

"Our research team have been pivotal in supporting patients to take part in COVID-19 studies, and today is a great opportunity to promote this.

"Research is crucial in developing new treatments to improve outcomes for our patients.

"Thank you to all our staff who have played a part in recruiting patients to these studies."

It was also announced that over the last year they have recruited 1410 participants into 51 different studies ­— exceeding their target of 1001.

The Trust's Research team said: "Thank you to everyone who has helped us provide our patients with the opportunity to have new treatments, and for those who have worked on the studies that contribute to a better understanding of diseases and practices. Thank you for being a part of research."

For more information, visit boltonft.nhs.uk.