THE race is hotting up for the title of Herefordshire’s best GP practice after two more surgeries were nominated and lavished with praise in recent days.

Patients have praised the professionalism and care they received from staff at Kingstone surgery and Fownhope Medical Centre and entered them for GP Practice of the Year in the Hereford Times Health and Social Care Awards.

At Kingstone one patient told how the doctors were wonderful helping him with a rare infection that ‘not many medical professions would have heard of.’

They carried out fortnightly blood tests and liaised with hospital specialists to manage the condition and the pain.

“They listened and were supportive during difficult times. They handled the rapid deterioration of my late mother’s health and once notified of her passing, nothing was too much trouble for them all.”

At Fownhope, who won the award in 2019, a patient wrote: “I have had amazing care over the last twenty years, and earlier for my in-laws.

"They have supported us through several bereavements, and have offered support and medication whilst my 93 year old mother was staying with us during the Covid crisis.

"Her carers couldn't support her in another County, and I brought her to stay with me whilst she was shielding.

“ Showing care and patience under sometimes extreme circumstances, they always go 'the extra mile' whether in reception, within the dispensary, or elsewhere in the practice.

To nominate your Care Heroes - an individual or a team who have done outstanding work just go to www.herefordtimes.com/awards/healthandsocialcare/ and click on the relevant category. It’s quick and easy. Entries close on August 21, so don’t delay.