Members of the public are being invited to nominate their local health heroes for a best of health staff award.

Hywel Dda Health Board is holding an internal staff awards scheme to recognise those who go above and beyond the call of duty within the local National Health Service.

The awards aim to recognise those who go the extra mile for their patients or drive innovation and service improvement - from porters and secretaries to doctors and nurses.

It is the first time the awards are being held across the new organisation, which integrates primary care such as GP services with community and hospital care, having previously only been open to hospital based staff in secondary care.

Chief executive Trevor Purt said: "Our workforce is one of our largest and greatest assets and without the considerable contribution and effort from every single person the delivery of effective healthcare services would not be possible.

"The best of health staff awards provides us with an opportunity to thank and recognise some of the exemplarily work that is carried out and to take stock of the positive impact this has on our patients' lives."

Last year, many Pembrokeshire staff were recognised in the awards scheme, including Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, consultant psychiatrist, Canolfan Bro Cerwyn, Haverfordwest; Ann Thomas, healthcare assistant, Acute Stroke Unit Ward 11, Withybush General Hospital; Mr. Withanage, acting locum consultant Withybush General Hospital; Elaine Jones, team leader, Haven Way Psychiatric Day Hospital, Pembroke Dock; Gill Lee-Munson, health visitor, Winch Lane Surgery, Haverfordwest; Neil Gillies, learning and development manager (informatics), Withybush General Hospital; Cleddau River Day Unit, South Pembrokeshire Hospital, Health and Social Care Resource Centre; and the reducing surgical complications, emergency and critical patient flow directorate, Withybush General Hospital.

Members of the public can make a nomination for an individual or a team through the website - http://www.hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk">www.hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk - or by contacting Nicola Gillies on 01437 771284 for a nomination form.

The categories are: The Chief Executive's Award for outstanding service, innovation or excellence in improving patient care or experience; Healthcare Worker of Year; Clinical Leader/Mentor of the Year; Manager of the Year; Learner of the Year; Unsung Hero (non-clinical); Team of the Year Award; Excellence in Partnership Working; Public or Staff Engagement and Involvement; Welsh Language Innovation.

All winners and short-listed entries will be invited to attend the Best of Health Awards Ceremony which will take place on October 7.

Nominations must be received by the Health Board by 12 noon on Wednesday, August 18.