READERS are urged to nominate their unsung hospital hero.

The Daily Echo are looking for dedicated hospital champions who work tirelessly to improve the lives of others.

A cheerful volunteer, a nurse working long hours, or a midwife bringing a new born baby into the world, are all worthy of a nomination.

We have teamed up with University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust for the 12th year to search for a new star to clinch a coveted title in the trust’s Hospital Heroes Awards.

The Daily Echo’s Reader’s Choice Award will be presented to an individuals who our readers feel have gone the the extra mile and given that little bit extra to provide support to people.

Gail Byrne, director of nursing and organisational development at University Hospital Southampton, said: “The annual Hospital Heroes awards help recognise the amazing work that our staff do on a daily basis.

“What is so brilliant about the awards is that it highlights stories that would otherwise go untold and celebrates the work of all staff.

“The Daily Echo’s Readers’ Choice Award is an incredibly important category as it gives members of the public the chance to share their personal experiences of interacting with staff and let us know where we have gone above and beyond. People can nominate any member of staff from UHS whether they are front line or behind the scenes.

"We are looking forward to hearing Daily Echo readers’ stories and celebrating the nominees at an awards ceremony later this year.”

To nominate, email georgia.jackson@dailyecho.co.uk, call 02380 284472, or write to Georgia Jackson, Daily Echo, Test Lane, Redbridge, Southampton, SO16 9JX.