A Rugby hospital volunteer who describes giving his time as “one of the best things I've ever done” has been shortlisted for a prestigious NHS award.

Ray Frankton, who has volunteered at the Hospital of St Cross for almost three years, is among those shortlisted in the Volunteers' Award category at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust's Outstanding Service and Care Awards (OSCAs).

He started volunteering on Cedar Ward, helping prepare paperwork for scanning. When the introduction of electronic patient records brought that role to an end, he found new ways to support the hospital.

For the past two years, he has helped with administration relating to patient equipment, including walking sticks and crutches, as well as supporting pre-operative clinics on Cedar.

Ray said: “I'm very lucky to be part of such a brilliant team, and I get to meet so many people. I've had a few jobs over the years, but this one is definitely up there with the best.

“Becoming a volunteer is unquestionably one of the best things I've ever done. Mrs Frankton would agree, because if I wasn't at St Cross, I'd probably be getting under her feet at home!

“Knowing someone has put my name forward for an OSCA means a great deal. And then to be shortlisted, it's the icing on the cake.”

Ray is not the only volunteer associated with The Friends of the Hospital of St Cross to receive recognition. Volunteers supporting the hospital's Maple Unit have also been shortlisted for the Volunteers' Award.

Other nominees in the Volunteers' Award category include Annette Turner, Jane Egbeocha, Jenny Nolan, Lizzy Howes, Lynda Scott, Shirley Griffin, Tom Mahoney, the Bingo Volunteers and the Bowel Cancer Screening Volunteers.

Garth Murphy, Chair of The Friends, said: “Ray is a wonderful example of someone who has embraced volunteering and found different ways to make himself useful as the hospital's needs have changed.

“His enthusiasm comes through whenever he talks about his work, and it's lovely to see that recognised. We are delighted for Ray and the Maple Unit volunteers.”

Willy Goldschmidt, President of The Friends, added: “One of the great things about volunteering is that people bring such different experiences and abilities, and there are opportunities to put those to good use.

“Ray's story shows how rewarding that can be, both for the individual and for the hospital. We congratulate everyone who has received recognition and wish them all the very best.”

The OSCAs celebrate outstanding contributions to patient care and services across UHCW, with this year's awards taking place on Friday, October 16.

Volunteers are always needed to help with extra events during the day and evening at Rugby’s Hospital of St Cross.

People who could provide extra support on an adhoc basis are also invited to find out more.

There are opportunities for people of all ages. If you would like to find out more about The Friends, look at their volunteering opportunities or make a donation, to the charity visit www.fsx.org.uk or Facebook and Instagram @FSXRugby.