A GUIDE who for the last 20 years has shown visitors around a medieval hospital has been honoured with an award.

For the last two decades, Dorothy Meade, from Gilesgate has led guided events and discussions on the history of Kepier Hospital and Loggia as part of the annual Heritage Open Days weekend.

Miss Meade has even had a book published on Kepier Hospital, which was built in around 1180 to relieve the poor and welcome pilgrims to Durham.

Fittingly, the hospital site was chosen as the location for the presentation of her Caring For Your Environment Award from Steve Bhowmick, on behalf of the County Durham Environment Partnership.

Miss Meade said: “I was delighted to accept the award and it is wonderful to be recognised in this way.

“Being involved in the Heritage Open Days are something I really enjoy doing.”

Mr Bhowmick said: “Volunteers like Dorothy who give up their time to share their knowledge mean people are learning a great deal of interesting information about our local heritage.”