A NURSE who injured her back during a lifting accident at work was awarded almost £30,000 yesterday.

Theatre sister Shelley Quantrill, 45, of South Shields, South Tyneside, was moving part of an operating table in August 2000 when she damaged her lower back.

South Tyneside NHS trust admitted liability for the accident, which happened at South Tyneside District Hospital.

But a short hearing was held at Newcastle County Court to establish the amount of compensation that she should receive.

Judge Judith Moir awarded the mother-of-three, who returned to work at the hospital six months after the accident, £29,740.

Speaking after the hearing, her legal representative, David Mole, of Thompsons solicitors, in Newcastle, said Ms Quantrill was still suffering the effects of the accident, but had returned to her job.

Mr Mole said: "Ms Quantrill is relieved with the outcome of the court case.

"Ms Quantrill is relieved the court proceedings have been successfully concluded and would like to pay tribute to the support of her employers and, in particular, the ongoing support of her immediate work colleagues and line manager."