A HEREFORDSHIRE care worker has been recognised for his extraordinary level of care and commitment throughout the Covid-19 pandemic at an annual national awards ceremony.

Wilbert Dabengwa, a team leader nurse at Ledbury Nursing Home, received his award for ‘Outstanding Clinical Contribution’ – sponsored by vCare - at the Shaw Star Awards on 4 November.

The home, based in Market Street, Ledbury, is home to 36 residents.

The ceremony, now in their 12th year, was held at the Tortworth Court Hotel in Gloucestershire.

The manager of Ledbury Nursing Home, Shelly Ford, recognised Mr Dabengwa for his true passion of caring for older people having being raised by his grandparents in Zimbabwe.

Mr Dabengwa said: “I am thrilled to have been recognised by my colleagues for this award. Every interaction I have with a resident is out of love and I genuinely love my job – winning this award will definitely be a career highlight for me.”

Mr Dabengwa is one of eight other award winners who were recognised at the event, which aims to celebrate the achievements of outstanding staff members across Shaw’s 80 UK facilities.

This year’s awards were also the first for Russell Brown as Shaw healthcare’s new CEO, as Jeremy Nixey steps down from the role after more than 40 years.

Mr Brown said: “It was truly fantastic to have staff members across the UK come together to celebrate what has become such an important event in the Shaw calendar.

“Our hardworking and committed staff have rallied through the pandemic and shown immense determination and compassion for our residents, so this year’s event was even more special - especially with last years’ awards ceremony being cancelled.

“We’ve had a fantastic, high-quality group of finalists and this year has been particularly difficult to pick our winners. It is true to say that every member of the Shaw family is a winner.”