A LONG-SERVING porter at Bridgwater Hospital has been honoured by the Bridgwater & District Civic Society for his 42 years of service to the NHS.

Members of the civic society took time to honour GMB trade union member Steve Collins at their January AGM.

Mr Collins previously worked at the old hospital on Salmon Parade, as well as the new one on Bower Lane.

Bridgwater Mercury: He was acknowledged for his pivotal role during the 1988 campaign to save the beloved Mary Stanley

He was acknowledged for his pivotal role during the 1988 campaign to save the Mary Stanley Maternity Hospital in Castle Street.

A trades union council spokesperson said: "Although, by a narrow margin, the Somerset NHS Community Health Council voted to close the Mary Stanley, they did agree, as a compromise, to keep maternity provision in Bridgwater by the opening of a special Mary Stanley Maternity Wing at Salmon Parade.

"Thanks to you, Steve, and to all past and present Bridgwater NHS workers and trades unionists!"