STAFF from St Helens and Whiston hospitals have been honoured at a glittering awards ceremony at Liverpool’s Echo Arena.

A host of famous faces and more than 1,000 staff turned out at the event on Friday, April 20 to salute their health heroes.

The Annual Staff Awards are held each year to highlight the outstanding contribution of staff at both hospitals and the difference they make to the lives of their many patients.

Star editor Andrew Kilmurray attended the event to present the St Helens Star People’s Choice Award, which followed nominations by our readers. He was joined by former Brookside actor Philip Olivier.

The honour was awarded to the Maternity Department at Whiston Hospital.

Readers praised the department for the exceptional service women and their families receive and highlighted the personalised and supportive care provided. Nominations also highlighted the department’s introduction of the ‘Whiston Babies’ Facebook page. This use of social media has transformed the way staff engage with parents and provides a valuable two way communication.

The page has gained more than 3,300 followers since it was introduced in autumn 2016, and has become a supportive online community to see families through their pregnancy and beyond.

Ann Marr, hospital chief executive, said: “I would like to thank readers of the St Helens Star for their ongoing support.

“The award ceremony provides a fantastic opportunity for patients and their families to have their say about the excellent care they receive at St Helens and Whiston hospitals.

“It is extremely important that we have the chance to pass on those thanks to staff and let them know that their commitment and kindness is never taken for granted.

“Congratulations to all of the winners.”

The event was hosted by presenter Pete Price, who was joined by a host of celebrities, including stars from Coronation Street and Hollyoaks and presenters from Granada Reports and Radio City.

For the Facebook page for the maternity department visit @whistonmaternity.

Here is the full list of winners:

Outstanding Achievement Award -Vinci FM

Outstanding Achievement Award - Medirest

Outstanding Achievement Award - Stroke Unit

Special Recognition Award - Emergency Department

Excellence in Clinical Care - Frailty Team

Excellence in Service Improvement - Ward 3B, fractured neck of femur

Excellence in Support Services - Radiology Department

Excellence in Patient Experience - Duffy Suite, Intermediate Care

People’s Choice Award - Maternity Department

Employee of the Year - Ann Rimmer, preceptorship co-ordinator, clinical education

Team of the Year - Therapy Team