With hundreds of entries, judges faced a difficult task narrowing each category down to a few finalists, with all speaking of their pride in watching Inverclyde rise to tackle the challenges posed by the pandemic.

George McKay, chief executive of Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce, said:

“It was a privilege to be part of the Judging Panel for The Greenock Telegraph Health & Care Awards.

“Every single person or team which had been submitted for appraisal within these sectors deserved to be winners, and separating them was emotional, difficult but yet fulfilling.

“Speaking for all members of Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce, we truly appreciate that Inverclyde has such professional and caring people.

“Well done to all involved.”

Council leader Stephen McCabe said picking the finalists and winners was a difficult task. He added:

“I was delighted to be a member of the judging panel for the Tele’s 2021 Health and Care Awards.

“We had lots of very worthy nominations and it was not an easy task to agree a shortlist and the eventual winners.

“All the nominees should be very proud of what they have achieved and the contributions they have made to supporting our community during what has been the most challenging year of our lives.”

Among the finalists is Chris Paul, who has been recognised for his work with mental health charity Man On Inverclyde and nurse Louise Tosh, who moved into a hotel for months to keep her family safe as she fought on the frontline against coronavirus.

Linda McEnhill, chief executive of Ardgowan Hospice, praised all of the nominees. Linda, who was the final member of the judging team alongside Telegraph editor Brian Hossack, said:

“It was so inspiring to read and hear about what individuals and teams have done across Inverclyde during the pandemic.

“It’s very clear that the public wants to recognise that and these awards have offered a perfect opportunity to do that. I feel very fortunate to live and work in such a caring community.”

Mr Hossack added:

“I’d like to thank all of the judges for their time, but the biggest plaudits go to our finalists and all of our readers for nominating them.

“We can’t wait to share more of their stories on the night and recognise them for their amazing work.”

GREENOCK TELEGRAPH HEALTH & CARE AWARDS 2021 – FINALIST SHORTLIST

Health Care Team Award sponsored by Hagan’s Pharmacy:
Inverclyde Royal Hospital, G South Ward; Inverclyde HSCP Care and Support at Home Team; Larkfield View Care Home Activities Team; Ross Campbell and the estates team at Inverclyde Royal Hospital.

Care Hero Award sponsored by Arnold Clark:
Mags Copeland; Jacqueline Coyle; Paul Higgins and Angela McConnell.

Care Home Worker of the Year Award sponsored by Meallmore:
Melissa Bradley; Sonya Ellis; Jennifer Marshall and Patricia O’Donnell.

Nurse of the Year Award sponsored by Blairs Windows & Doors:
Teresa Holland; Heather McGhee; Scott Carey and Louise Tosh

Young Carer Award sponsored by Inverclyde Council:
Jordan Gemmell; Becky Munley and Jill Young.

Mental Health Award sponsored by Ferguson Marine:
Chris Paul – Man On! Inverclyde; Gwenyth MacDonald & MindMosaic Counselling & Therapy; Morton’s Team Talk and Inverclyde Association for Mental Health

DR/GP of the Year Award sponsored by The Greenock Mortgage Shop: 
Dr Abbie Gunn; Dr Mun Woo; Dr Paul Coulter and Dr David-Peter Lynch

Outstanding Achievement Award sponsored by Inverclyde Council:

To be announced during the event.