A NURSE at a small hospital in Pwllheli is celebrating 50 years of caring for patients.

Avril Worsley began her career as a Cadet Nurse in 1969 at Bangor’s C&A Hospital, and over the years trained in different departments such as theatres, surgical and medical wards and also in the Emergency Department.

It was in April 1990 she joined Pwllheli's Ysbyty Bryn Beryl, where she was part of the District Nursing Team working mostly around the Llyn Peninsula before spending 20 years working in the hospital’s Minor Injuries Unit.

Now working as a ward nurse, Avril recently marked her 50 year milestone by celebrating with her colleagues at Ysbyty Bryn Beryl.

Speaking of her love for nursing, she said: “Being the first point of contact in an emergency and being able to help and reassure people when they are at their most vulnerable is my favourite part of nursing, which is why I enjoyed working in the Minor Injuries Unit.

“There is no better feeling than knowing you have helped someone to overcome a difficult situation.

“It would be fantastic to see a lot more younger people choosing nursing as a career - it can be a very rewarding if you’re willing to work hard, as it is very physically and mentally challenging.

“Nursing is not just a job, it is a vocation and you become part of a special team of people who do their best to ensure our patients receive the best possible care.

“If there is one thing I have learnt over the last 50 years in this profession that I would say to someone considering becoming a nurse is to treat everyone as you would wish to be treated and you won’t go wrong!"

Rhona Jones, Matron of Bryn Beryl Hospital has praised Avril for her continuous service.

She said: “Avril is highly respected and valued amongst all her colleagues here at Bryn Beryl Hospital.

“She has worked tirelessly over the years and has provided high standards of care and attention to thousands of patients.

“Congratulations to Avril on reaching such an amazing milestone in her career.”