A STAR podiatrist has been presented with a surprise award for her dedication to ensuring patients get the best possible treatment.

Amanda Rossell Smith was put into the spotlight when Gary Doherty, chief executive of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board made an unannounced visit to Ysbyty Alltwen in Tremadog.

He handed the delighted Amanda an BCUHB Gwobr Seren Betsi Star Award, which honours the hard work and dedication of staff, it is only the second time the award has been made.

Mr Doherty said Amanda was a worthy recipient, renowned among colleagues for her experience and high skills levels, her willingness to teach others, and total commitment to improving access to podiatry services in the local community.

He said: “This is a thank you from us, to show how much we appreciate the hours of hard work and dedication that our staff so regularly put in.”

Amanda was secretly nominated for the accolade by her manager Eryl Gilliland, BCHUB head of podiatry and orthotics west, who described her as a “star.”

Eryl said: “Amanda has worked hard to expand her personal skills and experiences to offer a wider range of services to her patients. Through study and extensive personal effort she is now able to provide in Ysbyty Alltwen the services previously only in available Ysbyty Gwynedd.

“She is unfailingly kind and enthusiastic to assist patients, including extensive liaison with nursing and primary care colleagues, the renal unit and local social services, to ensure her patients are cared for promptly in the most appropriate location."

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