A person who has become synonymous with healthcare in Helston has been honoured with a town plaque.

Sandy Bartlett, a former nurse at Helston Community Hospital, who has now retired completely, was presented with her award by mayor Jonathan Radford-Gaby.

Although she retired as senior sister of the hospital in 2008, she continued to help out two days a week at the Minor Injuries Unit.

Sandy first came to Cornwall, and specifically, Helston, back in 1971 when she worked at the hospital as a staff nurse, before being promoted to sister three years later.

The award presentation took place in front of fellow members of the League of Friends for the hospital, which has been busy raising money of late.

This includes a coffee morning at the home of League chairman Ann Russell and her husband Billy, which raised £437.51 through a raffle, bring and buy stall, and sale of refreshments. More money will be raised this Friday, when Helston’s new mayor Mike Thomas holds a charity dance at the Godolphin Club from 7.30pm.

Mr Thomas chose the League of Friends, which this year marks its 60th anniversary, as one of two charities to support over his forthcoming term of office – the second being a special fund for Helston’s deserving youth.

This year’s hospital summer fete will take place on Wednesday, July 9, to be opened by Tiffany Truscott.

Before that, however, a group of hospital staff will be taking part in a sponsored walk in aid of the League, on Saturday, May 24 starting from the hospital.

The League of Friends works to improve the stay of patients at the hospital by improving its facilities.