A CHEF has chalked up four decades of cooking for hospital patients.

William Embleton, head cook at Lanchester Road Hospital, near Durham, is celebrating 40 years service in the NHS.

The 55-year-old, who is known as Billy, began catering at the then Dryburn Hospital, in Durham, aged 15. He took up his first post as a trainee cook on October 13, 1969.

In 1975 he became assistant head cook at Earls House Hospital. He has been head cook at the recently renamed Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust-run unit since 1984.

At a ceremony to recognise his service, Mr Embleton was given an engraved tankard. Friends and family could also view photographs spanning the last 40 years.

Mr Embleton, a grandfather of two, said: "I love my job and count myself as very fortunate to work with such wonderful colleagues.

"I started with the trust 40 years ago and have loved every minute. I am passionate about food and love nothing more than making a good old cottage pie for the staff at Lanchester Road Hospital."

Dianne Stephenson, Mr Embleton’s manager, said: "Billy is dedicated to his job and his team feel privileged to work with him."