A WEST Devon nurse was given national recognition recently at the Queen's Nursing Institute for her commitment to patient care.

Vanessa Crossey from NHS Northern, Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group (NHS New Devon CCG), was among four nurses from Devon to pick up awards at the charity's spring awards ceremony.

Vanessa was one of three Devon nurses who received the prestigious title of Queen's Nurse.

Before joining NHS New Devon CCG in October 2014, Vanessa treated soldiers on the front line for 21 years as an army nurse.

Vanessa's role as lead practice nurse focuses on providing support and advice to commissioners on nursing issues.

For Vanessa, receiving the title means joining a cohort of like-minded community practitioners with a real passion to improve patient care.

She said: 'I've been honoured to be able to work with so many people in my time as a nurse and I feel proud to have been able to make a difference.

'It's great for me and for the other Devon nurses to be recognised on a national level for our commitment to improving care in our local communities.'

Vanessa received her Queen's Nurse Award from Jane Cummings, chief nursing officer for England.

The award, founded in 1994, is for those who have given service to patients and the profession over and above the call of duty and have made a particularly distinguished contribution to the health of people in the community.

Crystal Oldman, chief executive of the QNI, said: 'Congratulations to Vanessa Crossey, Sam Rosindale, Lisa Baker and Vanessa Hurley for their achievements.

'We are delighted that the QNI is able to give these nurses national recognition for their dedication and expertise. We look forward to working with all of them to continue improving patient care in homes and communities in Devon.'