TWO healthcare assistants from Williton Hospital who started work on the same day have been commended for their dedication after 25 years service.

Julie Hole and Wendy Dickinson, who work at the specialist stroke unit at Williton Community Hospital, were presented with long service certificates and commemorative crystal paperweights.

Commending their dedication to patients, Chairman of NHS Somerset Jane Barrie OBE, said: “It gave me great pleasure to present both ladies with their awards in recognition of 25 years service. “They are both valued members of the team and excellent role models to anyone wanting to work with patients or aspiring to a career in the National Health Service.”

Julie started her career at the town’s old community hospital.

In 1988, following the hospital’s move to its present site she, she cared for general medical patients on Wordsworth Ward. Julie has since undertaken vocational training and specialist training in palliative care. Since working at the hospital’s specialist stroke unit, she has continued to upgrade her specialist training in stroke care.

Julie’s colleague and friend Wendy Dickinson is the healthcare assistant link with St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice.

She too started her career as a healthcare assistant on Wordsworth Ward in Williton until the specialist Stroke Unit was developed. She has also undertaken much vocational training, including a Diploma in Health and Social Sciences. She has recently started training as a Rehabilitation Assistant.