THE CEO of Bolton Hospice has praised her team after they received a special award recognising their hard work during the coronavirus crisis.

The High Sheriff Special Recognition Award has been given to individuals or groups throughout Greater Manchester for their outstanding contributions to the community over the past few months.

Bolton Hospice is among the recipients of the award, in light of the vital role they play in caring for patients and supporting their loved ones.

The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Dr Eamonn O’Neal DL, said in his letter: “You were nominated for your amazing work in looking after the patients and families in your community.

“You care for people when they are at their most vulnerable. It’s a wonderful thing to do and you do it within a framework of strong values.

“This has been a challenging and difficult period and yet you have continued with your vocation with great skill and humility.

“As well as caring for patients, you have been looking after each other’s wellbeing, which is extremely important at this time.

“I have seen all of this at very close quarters and you should be very proud.”

Dr Leigh Vallance, the CEO of Bolton Hospice, said: “This special award is recognition of the outstanding efforts made by all of our team at Bolton Hospice, those caring for patients and families in our community, working on site or at home, being on furlough helping to keep us safe.

“It’s a team effort and commitment to our cause that has got us through this so far, and is what will get us through the challenges ahead.

“We’ve got an amazing team at the hospice and I couldn’t be prouder.”