Two Ayrshire ‘healthcare heroes’ have been announced as finalists in this year’s Scottish Health Awards.

The ceremony celebrates NHS staff such as support workers, volunteers, and specialist teams who provide outstanding care and support to patients and their families.

Jan Thomson, senior manager of the North Ayrshire Learning Disability Service, was chosen as a nominee in the leader of the year category for her work leading the service through change, expansion, and COVID-19.

South Ayrshire’s Linda McGinn has also been nominated as a finalist for the nurse award for her work helping parents of special needs children collect essential supplies during the Covid-19 pandemic, and for her dedication to administering vaccines to staff and children.

Chief Executive of NHS Ayrshire and Arran, Claire Burden, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have two finalists in this year’s Scottish Health Awards. This is an amazing recognition for our staff across the organisation. We are so lucky to have staff like Jan and Linda, who don’t think twice about going above and beyond to look after those living in Ayrshire and Arran.

“We wish everyone the best of luck. It is a huge achievement to reach this stage and I would like to congratulate Jan and Linda in reaching the finals. Their selflessness makes such a difference to those they care for.”

Winners will be announced on Thursday 3 November at the ceremony in Edinburgh’s 02 Academy.

The awards are held yearly by the Daily Record in partnership with NHS Scotland and the Scottish Government.