A NURSE who has cared for patients for almost 30 years has been awarded the title of queen’s nurse.

Cheryl Forrest, Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust lead nurse for the Pennine division, was given the title for showing high standards of practice and patient care.

Mrs Forrest, from Blackburn but who lives in Darwen, became a staff nurse in Manchester in 1990 and moved to the intensive care wards at Royal Blackburn Hospital.

The title is not an award for past service, but indicates a commitment to high standards of patient care, learning and leadership.

During her career, Mrs Forrest has worked as a health visitor and practice teacher in Blackburn, a team leader in Burnley and a service manager.

Mrs Forrest said: “It was an honour to find out I had been successful in my application to become a Queens Nurse. Nursing is my passion and person-centred high quality care is what nursing is all about.

“I feel absolute honour to be recognised for my continuing commitment to improving standards of care in the community and to learning and leadership. I’m now looking forward to going to London to officially receive the title and continue on with the great work that we do in supporting people.”

Mrs Forrest will be presented with her award at a ceremony in London next month.