A nurse at Lynde House in Richmond won a national care accolade earlier this month.

Ridel Francisco was crowned as the national winner of the Nurse of the Year category at the 2018 Barchester Care Awards on October 11.

The awards celebrate staff and volunteers who go the extra mile for the benefit of residents and patients living in care homes and mental health hospitals.

There were over 1,500 nominations from people across the UK. After being shortlisted as one of four divisional winners, Ridel was interviewed by a panel of judges for the final round.

He joined the other divisional winners at an awards ceremony, where he was awarded the national prize and presented with a trophy and £500 gift voucher.

The judge for the category, Barchester’s Julia Atherton, Director of Nursing, said “his enthusiasm at Lynde House keeps his team on their toes- and they’re all the better for it. Always learning and improving, but never short of time for any resident in his care, Ridel’s sensitive yet hands-on approach demonstrates the high standard of care he sets on himself, which is nothing short of exemplary.”

Ridel said: “I am very proud, and very honoured to be receiving this award. We work hard here at our home with a focus on the people we care for, and not for accolades, but it really is very special to be recognised in this way.”