WITH over 284 years of NHS service between them, a group of Huddersfield staff working for South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust received long service awards.

The staff - who have all worked for 25 years in more in the NHS - work in mental health and learning disability services at sites across the town.

The staff were presented with certificates and gift vouchers at a special event held at St Luke's Hospital.

Among those who received an award was Catherine Minshull, manager at Rushbrooke House, Milnsbridge, an in-patient unit for people with mental health problems.

Catherine said: "I started working at the NHS at Storthes Hall Hospital 25 years ago. I've seen lots of changes over the years including seeing the old hospital services replaced by better community services."

Health trust chief executive Steven Michael, who presented the awards, said: "This event is a great opportunity for South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust to thank our long-serving staff for their remarkable contribution to the NHS.

"Their hard work and dedication helps to improve the lives of so many people with mental health problems and learning disabilities in the area."