A NHS boss has been named regional champion in a prestigious competition to celebrate excellence in health and care in England.

Andy Styring, director of operations at the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, was nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award by MP Antoinette Sandbach.

The NHS Parliamentary Awards, which recognise the outstanding contribution of staff, volunteers and others working in the health and care sector, received almost 600 nominations across England from mkore than 230 MPs.

Mr Styring was selected by senior regional NHS experts as the north-west’s winner and will now vie with other regional winners from across England for the national award, which will be presented at a special ceremony in the Palace of Westminster next week.

Winsford MP Mrs Sandbach said: “This award is a fitting testament to Andy’s life-ime commitment to putting people first and foremost and enabling them to live independent lives through choice and involvement, rather than face the prospect of long-term institutional care.

“I know that everyone in Eddisbury will share my delight that Andy has been named regional champion. He is representing the thousands of staff and volunteers who work day in, day out across our area to shape, deliver and support health and care services.”

Mr Styring said: “I am delighted to receive this award which I accept on behalf of all individuals who support people with learning disabilities and mental health problems.

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"I have worked all my career to empower people to live independent lives through choice and involvement, ensuring people get the right care, in the right place, at the right time. I hope this award helps to raise awareness of the importance of helping all people to be the best they can be.”