EAST Lancashire is blessed with so many caring and selfless people.

Those who give their time to charity, volunteering or spare a thought for neighbours are just some examples.

Without them, our county would be a much poorer place.

Then there are the paid professionals who care for a living, working long hours, in difficult circumstances, and often going beyond the call of duty.

Julia Hogan fits into both of those groups.

Skilled in the health service, she gave up her own time to treat victims of ebola in Sierre Leone, even spending her birthday caring for people with suspected or confirmed cases of the disease.

And, as one of her seniors said, she showed bundles of courage and commitment to care.

The dangers and difficulties of the task don’t need spelling out but being able to save a life and see them discharged to the sounds to drumming and singing must leave a massive sense of achievement.

So it’s pleasing to hear Julia has been honoured for her efforts in a ceremony at number 10 Downing Street.

The treatment she gave contributed to the outbreak being brought under control, with fewer admissions and more people being discharged.

The government should consider handing out more campaign medals like the one bestowed on Julia for the wonderful work volunteers undertake during times of crisis.