THREE women employed by the Southampton-based Solent NHS Trust have earned the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse.

Bethany Carter, Sarah Grainger and Anthea Thorpe have been awarded the accolade by the Queen’s Nursing Institute for demonstrating a high level of commitment to patient care and nursing practice.

They will formally receive their title, including a certificate and badge, at an online ceremony on December 13.

Jackie Munro, chief nurse at the Trust said: "Community nursing is an absolutely vital yet often unseen and unsung side of the profession.

“Only a handful of nurses from across the country receive this award every year – so to see three of our nurses receive it is a clear indication of their dedication and commitment.

"All three are fabulous role models and I’m so proud they work for Solent."

Bethany Carter, who qualified in 2005, began her nursing career in the armed forces. She was the infection prevention specialist at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, before moving to Sierra Leone to help tackle the Ebola epidemic.

She joined Solent after retiring from the military and currently heads up infection prevention.

She said: "I dreamt of being a nurse from the age of six and I feel like I have surpassed my professional hopes and dreams. I will continue my commitment, my vocation and life’s journey to care for our most vulnerable in society, to keep them safe and free from harm."

Sarah Grainger joined the profession in Portsmouth in 1988, later working for NHS Direct before starting her community nursing career in 2008.

She said: “I am honoured and proud to have been awarded the Queen’s Nurse title. It's a wonderful opportunity to share the excellent care I strive to achieve as a leader in an integrated multi-disciplinary service."

Anthea Thorpe, who joined Solent in 2010, added: "My Mum and Grandma were fiercely proud nurses and I cherish this award in their name.

“This title will allow me to champion the endeavours made by community nursing and my role within that. I am hugely honoured and delighted to be a Queen’s Nurse.”