THE Fylde's nurses were honoured with a special celebration day last Friday.

Around 100 health professionals gathered at Blackpool Victoria Hospital for Make A Difference Day, part of International Nurses Day.

The event included talks on nurse-led initiatives which have improved patient care.

Specialist stroke nurse Alison Stewart spoke on the progression of stroke services, sister Jackie Monks talked about developments in dermatology at Devonshire Road Hospital and matron Jackie Rayworth discussed the South Shore Hospital's nurse-led ward. They were joined by national guest speakers Harry Cayton, director for patients and the public for the Department of Health, and John Badham, Essence of Care national leader.

The event was held in the hospital's Health Professionals Education Centre, and the audience included Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde NHS Hospitals Trust nurses, and representatives from the Royal College of Nursing, Royal College of Midwives, local Primary Care Trusts and the Strategic Health Authority.

Mandie Sunderland, the trust's director of nursing and quality, said: "This is the third year we have held such an event to coincide with the annual international celebration of nurses day on May 12.

"We have 2,500 nurses and midwives working across the Fylde.

"We have seen many developments across the profession in recent years, for example the return of matron, the establishment of nurse-led services and improved recruitment and retention.

"This is an opportunity for us to get together and acknowledge the different ways that nurses and midwives provide a high quality service to patients."

The event was sponsored by local and national companies, Welch Allyn, RCN Publishing, Grantham Signs, SMA Nutrition and Milupa.