OFFERING "care that is second to none" has led to staff at a Boston hospice winning a prestigious NHS award.

The St Barnabas Hospice day care team based at the charity's site in Green Lane scooped the top prize in the independent sector category at the second annual NHS Lincolnshire Care, Courtesy and Kindness Awards.

They were nominated for the award by three patients including Betty Meeds.

She said: "I didn't know places like this existed before. I have been a patient here for some time and the staff and care is second to none.

"Nothing is too much trouble for anyone. It is a wonderful place to come."

St Barnabas community fundraiser Chris Fox added: "It's absolutely wonderful that the team at St Barnabas Hospice Boston have won this award.

"It's great that the hard work and dedication they put in 365 days of the year has been recognised in this way."

During the awards ceremony at the Petwood Hotel in Woodhall Spa, NHS Lincolnshire chairman Richard Childs paid tribute to the nominees and winners.

He said: "There is some fantastic work that gets done on a daily basis by staff across the health community.

"Congratulations to all who were nominated and thank you to those who took the time to recognise their hard work and commitment."

The St Barnabas Day Hospice has been running in Boston for almost 20 years and has helped thousands of people over that time. It relies on donations and fundraising to continue its work.

To get involved contact Chris Fox on (01529) 415545.