THE paediatric department at the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust has been rated the best in the North West for training specialist child doctors.

The award comes after trainee doctors from Health Education England evaluated the training experience they received at the Royal Blackburn and Burnley General hospitals, and nominated the East Lancashire department for a ‘PAFTA’ – the Paediatric Awards For Training Achievements.

The award recognises junior and senior trainee doctors among other staff who demonstrate excellence in their work and support to peers as well patients and their families.

Dr Chris Gardner, clinical director for paediatrics at the trust, said: “It is fantastic news to know that the commitment and enthusiasm of our paediatric team is recognised by Health Education England and our trainee doctors as being second to none in the North West.

"To hear that training for paediatricians at East Lancashire hospitals is so highly regarded, in the face of stiff competition from hospitals across the north west including more than one specialist children’s hospital, is truly magnificent and a real feather in our cap."

Directors at the trust aim to bring home the national award during a presentation in May.