A nurse from the Black Country attended the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace this week in recognition of her hard work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her Majesty the Queen hosts four garden parties every year as a way of recognising and rewarding members of public who have given exceptional service to their community.

The parties attract thousands of people from across the UK, including a large number of NHS staff. Beverley Morris, Head of Continuing Healthcare for the Black Country and West Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group was invited to the second party of the year, which took place on Wednesday 18 May, in recognition of her fantastic leadership and care to patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year she was awarded the prestigious British Empire Medal for her work supporting care homes in crisis and the proactive swabbing of care home patients throughout the pandemic. She said:

“Attending the garden party this week was an experience I don’t think I’ll ever forget. Just to be in the grounds of Buckingham Palace was amazing. The day was beautiful and it was great to meet so many other interesting people who were being honoured for their achievements too.

“My daughter and I even got to meet Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, which was just a surreal moment.”

Mark Axcell, Interim Accountable Officer of the BCWB CCG, added: “Beverley is a fantastic leader and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has led her team with knowledge and humility, often going the extra mile.

“It’s brilliant to see all her hard being recognised in such a prestigious way and I’m delighted to hear she had a great time at Buckingham Palace. A big well done to Beverley, and thank you for everything you and your team do.”