A NURSE from the region has been recognised for her commitment in a national awards ceremony.

Marie Curie nurse Claire Brookes, of Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, received a Highly Commended certificate in the finals of the Marie Curie/Clinton Cards Nurse of the Year Awards for England.

The mother-of-two was presented with her award at a ceremony at Marie Curie Cancer Care's central London offices.

Claire, 35, works in the Newcastle area, caring for people who are seriously ill with cancer in their own homes. She is one of the charity's 3,000-plus English staff, who work alongside its ten hospice centres.

This is the first year that its annual awards have been sponsored by Clinton, which contributed towards bursaries, flowers and champagne for the winners.