GWENT'S first diabetes specialist nurse is the inaugural winner of a new excellence award set up in memory of a member of the area's patients' watchdog.

Josie Ross, from Ebbw Vale, has been rewarded for the care she has provided for thousands of diabetes patients during some 20 years in the role, with Gwent Community Health Council's Tudgay award for excellence, named after former member Rod Tudgay, who died last year.

When Mrs Ross took on the role around 20 years ago, working closely with consultant physician Dr John Saunders at Abergavenny's Nevill Hall Hospital, the concept of specialist nurses was in its infancy in Wales.

But she is now lead diabetes specialist nurse for Gwent Healthcare Trust, heading a 10-strong team across the area, whose members provide care, advice and support for diabetes patients of all ages.

The award citation recognises her "outstanding contribution to the care and support of diabetic patients."

Mrs Ross is known for her dedication and hard work and always being available to provide encouragement and advice to patients, even on her days off.

She insisted on accepting the award on behalf of the whole team of diabetes specialist nurses.

"Although the Community Health Council has a watchdog role, it is important we recognise excellence in the NHS and the contribution made by outstanding individuals," said Gwent CHC chief officer Cathy O'Sullivan.

"We hope this will be the first of many Tudgay awards, and we could not have had a more worthy first recipient."