The Lord Lieutenant of Moray has paid tribute to healthcare staff across the region as the NHS celebrates its 72nd anniversary.
Major General Seymour Monro yesterday visited Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin to mark the occasion and praise staff for their hard work in the fight against the coronavirus.
He also highlighted a significant local connection to the nursing profession that has played such a key role during the pandemic.
“l just wanted to mention Ethel Gordon Fenwick – a wonderful nurse,” said Mr Monro.
“Ethel was born at Spynie House, just three miles north east of Dr Gray’s, and she spent the first 12 years of her life there.”
“In 1920, her campaigning for the recognition of the nursing profession resulted in the establishment of the General Nursing Council.
“There are now over 20 million registered nurses worldwide.”
He added: “Thank you to all the NHS staff, cleaners, consultants, anaesthetists and administrators, doctors and nurses, midwives and canteen staff.
“I also want to thank all carers, whether at residential homes or working in patients’ homes.
“These have been anxious times for them. They have sometimes faced a lack of resources, often challenging situations, and this has caused difficulties in their personal and family lives.
“Thank you all for your supreme efforts over the past three months.”
Dr Gray’s head clinical and care governance, Liz Tait, said she too was grateful to the staff who have worked “long and hard hours” during the coronavirus crisis.
She added: “Everyone has done their best for all the people of Moray by keeping themselves safe and helping keep the public safe.”