A MUM from Stretford has been honoured at an awards ceremony for dedicating more than 30 years to the Christie.

Carol Forrester, 47, was recognised at the specialist cancer centre’s annual long service awards.

BBC Breakfast presenter Bill Turnbull was guest of honour at the event and presented winners with their awards.

Carol, who has two daughters Natasha and Ebonee, who also works at The Christie, and a one -year-old granddaughter, first started at the Christie as a trainee on a youth training scheme within the health records office. She then progressed through a number of departments and roles to her current position as a human resources officer.

She said: “Over the past 30 years I have been so proud to be part of the Christie team working and making a difference in the various roles I have done over the years.

“It’s been an honour to support all our front line staff who care for our patients and their relatives, especially as I have had family members and friends treated here.

“As I have grown up here at the trust, I can't imagine working anywhere else. All being well I hope I can dedicate myself to the Trust and make a big difference for another 30 years.”

Bill, who has been in Manchester since the BBC moved to Media City, has become a valued supporter of the Christie, having hosted a charity luncheon to raise funds. He will also be taking part in the Great Manchester Run for The Christie next month.

He said: “The Christie is an organisation that inspires loyalty, commitment and pride, and all of these traits were represented wonderfully by the long service recipients today.

“Each of them brings something special to their role, whether as a member of staff or volunteer, and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to meet and speak with such caring and dedicated individuals.”

Fifty-seven members and staff and volunteers were recognised at the event, collectively dedicating more than 1,200 years to The Christie.

Interim chief executive Roger Spencer said; “It makes us very proud to recognise the long–standing support and hard work of so many of our staff and volunteers. That level of continuity is vital in helping us progress our services and our patients benefit massively from their dedication. They all thoroughly deserve this recognition.”