A long-serving nurse at Practice Plus Group Hospital in Shepton Mallet has been honoured with an Excellence Award for her efforts to make the hospital more eco-friendly.

Heidi Soderlin, Head of Clinical Services, picked up the award for her special contribution to sustainability as the hospital prepares to mark its 20th anniversary next month.

Since joining the hospital in 2005, Heidi has risen from anaesthetic and recovery nurse to clinical lead. In that time she has launched the hospital's Green Group — a team dedicated to embedding eco-friendly practices across the site. The initiative has inspired other Practice Plus Group hospitals to set up their own Green Groups, spreading the benefits of sustainable working throughout the organisation.

Commenting on the initiative, Heidi said: "We've made great strides — from phasing out harmful anaesthetic gases to reducing surgical waste and adopting pre-filled syringes. Our passion has translated into tangible change, and it's been incredible to watch the momentum grow."

Heidi added: "This place has shaped my career and allowed me to contribute to causes I care deeply about — supporting future nurses and protecting our planet. I can't wait to see what the next chapter holds."

Hospital Director Catherine Farr said the changes implemented by Heidi and the team had been "incredible" for both staff and patients.

"We're very committed to ongoing development of green changes on site, and have most recently been working to reduce surgical waste," she said. "These efforts ensure we operate with utmost safety for both staff and patients, and continue to make conscious decisions to drive sustainable change for the future."

Practice Plus Group Hospital in Shepton Mallet specialises in hip and knee replacements, cataract treatments and hernia surgeries for both NHS and private patients.

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