Professor Jackie Taylor, President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, has welcomed the news that the tireless work carried out by NHS staff since the start of the pandemic has been recognised by the Queen.
The George Cross, which is awarded for great acts of heroism and courage, has been awarded to the National Health Services of the UK. In a personal message, the Queen offered her “enduring thanks and heartfelt appreciation” to all NHS staff for their “courage, compassion and dedication, demonstrating the highest standards of public service”.
A national service of thanksgiving is being at St Paul’s Cathedral in London today to mark the 73rd anniversary of the NHS.
Professor Taylor said:
“Since the start of the pandemic NHS staff and resources have been stretched across the United Kingdom and healthcare professionals have responded tirelessly to provide the best care for patients.
“I am delighted as President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow and as a clinician that the 73-year anniversary of the National Health Service has been honoured by the Queen’s award of the George Cross.
“I congratulate all my colleagues that their work is being acknowledged in such a personal and heartfelt tribute from the Queen on behalf of a grateful nation.”