THE chief executive of an NHS Trust has written an emotional letter to the families of her staff to thank them for being their "super power" during the pandemic.

Julie Gillon, the chief executive of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, wrote to her 5,500 employees as part of a continued campaign of thanks and gratitude to communities across the Tees Valley.

Barbara Bright, director of corporate services and chief of staff, said: “Our staff have all pulled together in typical North Tees and Hartlepool style throughout the pandemic.

"There has been a need to change so much of our business as usual, and the impact of that on our colleagues has been significant.

She added: “The loved ones of our staff have in essence been our ‘twelfth man’ to use a Teesside footballing analogy.

"They have been our staff’ cheerleaders and their comfort after they arrive home. We really cannot underestimate their role in helping us to stay focused during the pandemic."