TIMES readers are being encouraged to vote for their Healthcare Hero for 2013.

The Times has linked up with the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust to find a Healthcare Hero in the Okehampton area.

The awards, running for the second year, recognise staff who deserve to be rewarded for going above and beyond the call of duty. The trust manages Okehampton and Moretonhampstead hospitals as well as community nursing and therapy teams throughout the area, who care for people in their own homes.

The public are invited to contact the Times and nominate any member of trust staff, no matter what their job role.

Jac Kelly, the trust's chief executive, said: 'Our staff care passionately about our patients' health and wellbeing and do a huge amount of excellent unsung work, whether in a hospital, in a health centre or when visiting people in their own home.

'We receive many letters, e-mails and phone calls each week from patients and their families, which highlight the positive impact our staff have had on their lives.

'While this makes me very proud, I want to make sure our unsung heroes are recognised and honoured officially for going the extra mile. The Healthcare Hero Awards give us the perfect opportunity to do this."

The public are asked to e-mail Times reporter Tom French at [email protected]">[email protected] or via post at 8 East Street, Okehampton, EX20 1AS with their stories of how trust staff have provided exceptional care and support to them and their families.

The trust has about 4,500 employees across Devon and all are eligible for nomination, including nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, therapists and support staff such as cleaners, porters and administrators.

Mrs Kelly said: 'We value all our staff and appreciate the commitment they make to provide the best possible care to the people of Okehampton, Moretonhampstead and elsewhere in Devon.

'Please come forward and help us find that special member of staff who will be our Healthcare Hero for 2013.'

The deadline for nominations is midnight on Tuesday, December 31.

The winners will be presented with their awards early in the New Year.