A BADGE designed by Teesside artist, Mackenzie Thorpe, to thank South Tees NHS staff for their work during the pandemic has been given the thumbs-up by Boris Johnson.

The pin badges were sent to employees as a token of gratitude from the South Tees Hospitals Charity in collaboration with the pinyourthanks.org campaign and artist Mackenzie Thorpe.

Mackenzie created the bespoke and personal piece of art, based on his 'Duffle Coat Child'.

And the pins have been given the approval of the Prime Minister after Redcar MP, Jacob Young, presented the design to him. Mr Young said: "I saw first-hand the amazing work which South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust staff have been doing day in day out when I had the pleasure of spending a day as a volunteer at James Cook Hospital.

"Mackenzie's design is a beautiful tribute to all those who have worked so hard during this pandemic and I was delighted to see this People's Medal design given the full endorsement of the Prime Minister when I met him this week."