PEOPLE in the Durham dales are being asked to nominate health care staff who make a difference to the quality of care received by patients.

The Durham Dales Primary Care Trust (PCT) has launched the award scheme to reward excellence and service improvement and recognise individuals who have made a special contribution.

People impressed by the service they have received from staff working in GP or dental surgeries, opticians, pharmacies, health clinics, community hospital or the PCT to nominate them for either a PCT employee of the year award or a primary care employee of the year award.

Health care staff are also able to nominate colleagues.

The chairman of the PCT, Anne Beeton, said: "Our staff are our greatest asset, the success of our organisation is because of the commitment and teamwork of the people we employ, that is why it is important that we recognise them for their hard work and dedication to the service in which they provide."

There will be a presentation evening on March 9 at Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland, where individual award winners will receive a certificate and £100 vouchers. The winning entry in the service award will be awarded £200 plus a commemorative gift and certificate for each member of the team.

The closing date for entries is January 31. Nomination forms are available in PCT offices, surgeries, pharmacies and opticians.

More details about the awards and nomination forms are available by visiting www.durhamdales-pct.nhs.uk