A NURSE who works with families during the most difficult times in their lives has won a top.

Erin Bolton, who is Bereavement Care Lead Nurse at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, has received the 2017 Nurse of the Year award presented by the British Journal of Nursing (BJN).

She was announced the winner of the title at the BJN Awards in London which recognise and celebrate the individuals going above and beyond in delivering nursing care.

Mrs Bolton, who is based at the Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital, is also bereavement care nurse for Burnley General Teaching Hospital, Clitheroe Community Hospital, Pendle Community Hospital and Accrington Victoria Community Hospital.

Mrs Bolton said: “I never expected to hear my name being read out as the winner on the night but I am delighted.

"I was up against some remarkable people in my category so I am extremely proud to have won.

“I feel very honoured to be a bereavement nurse and work with colleagues to make a real difference to patients and families during the most difficult times of their lives.”

The trust's deputy director of nursing Julie Molyneaux said: “Erin is an exceptional leader in the field of bereavement care.

“Her award is a true reflection on what she has achieved and what she has brought to the people who come into her care.

“Good end of life care is hugely important and Erin leads the way in delivering excellent support for bereaved families, as well as introducing new ideas to ensure we provide high quality and personal care in difficult circumstances.”