Michael Roys Crowned Star of the Year at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals’ Star Awards

Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) is proud to announce that Michael Roys, Transport Manager, has been named Star of the Year at the Trust’s annual Star Awards, held on 6 November.

Michael received the prestigious accolade following an extraordinary act of kindness and compassion which exemplified the very best of patient-centred care.

His nomination, submitted by a grateful family member, described how Michael went above and beyond to support a patient with dementia, COPD and a history of falls, who was struggling to access an appointment when they arrived during a particularly busy period to find that all of the available disabled parking spaces were taken.

Unable to safely drop her mother at the door due to her health needs, the relative feared they would miss her crucial urology appointment. Michael immediately stepped in. After listening to their situation, he quickly secured a parking space, fetched a wheelchair himself, and personally escorted the patient to her appointment – lightening the moment with warmth, humour and genuine kindness.

The nomination read: “Michael went out of his way to help me and my mum and I really appreciate it. He was a very friendly person, laughing and joking with my mum who comes out with some right corkers. He went above and beyond what we expected.”

Michael’s actions left a lasting impact on the family, and his recognition as Star of the Year reflects the admiration and gratitude felt across the Trust for colleagues who consistently embody DBTH’s values.

Mathew Gleadall, Operational Director of Estates & Facilities at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “Michael’s compassion and initiative turned what could have been an extremely stressful situation into a positive experience for this patient and her family. His actions demonstrate exactly what our Star Awards are designed to celebrate – colleagues who go the extra mile, act with empathy, and make a real difference – even if they’re not in a clinical role. We are incredibly proud to recognise him as our Star of the Year.”

Michael was celebrated alongside other winners and nominees at the Star Awards ceremony, which honours outstanding contributions from staff across the organisation. The Star Awards is delivered thanks to sponsorship from local businesses and partners with the Star of the Year category generously sponsored by Holt Doctors – a leading medical agency for locum doctors.


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The group, made up of breast cancer survivors, current patients, and supporters, organised a series of fundraising activities throughout the year – including coffee mornings, crafting sessions and handmade sales – to give back to the hospital teams who supported them through their journeys.

All money raised will go directly to the Jasmine Centre, which provides breast screening and diagnostic services, and the Chatsfield Suite, where patients receive chemotherapy and other treatments. The funds will be used to improve patient facilities and experience and to provide added comfort for those receiving care.

The group originally set out to raise just £500 but, thanks to the generosity of their local communities and personal contacts, they far exceeded their initial goal raising £4,650, which will be divided equally between both departments.

Julie Fretwell, breast cancer survivor and member of the support group, said: “The Jasmine Centre and Chatsfield Suite mean so much to so many of us. We wanted to show our gratitude to the amazing staff who go above and beyond every day. Every penny raised will help make someone’s experience a little easier.”

Speaking about the formation of the group, Julie said: “We found each other during the worst times our lives but we managed to make them into some of the best times with each other’s company. It’s not something we planned, it just happened organically but I know we’re all thankful to have such a reliable group of constant support and real friends.”

There are currently 20 members in the group, all at different stages of their journeys, but all there for each other day and night. Julie said: “When you are going through a cancer diagnosis and all the subsequent treatment you have so many questions and there are some things which you don’t want to share with your nearest and dearest. Our group is the perfect answer to that. There will always be someone who experienced the same thing as you or can answer your questions and it’s a completely judgement free zone.”

Representatives from DBTH expressed their appreciation for the group’s efforts. Lara Cunane-Reay, Ward Manager of the Chatsfield Suite, said: “We’re so grateful to this incredible group of strong women for their generosity and continued support. Their fundraising will make a real difference to patients and staff across our cancer services.”

The group presented colleagues at the hospital with a cheque during a recent visit to the Jasmine Centre, where their journeys began. Lara said: “It’s been fantastic to see these ladies again – in our area of healthcare in particular you remember each and every person you care for and to see them supporting each other and staying in touch has been so heartwarming.”

The group meets regularly to provide emotional support, share experiences, and raise awareness about early detection and treatment.

As well as fundraising, they have been campaigning to implement a new, fully funded crafting project at Dadesley Crafting Centre, Tickhill Road Hospital. Thanks to the groups efforts, people with breast cancer can now access a free crafting session on the third Thursday of every month.

Julie said: “The crafting sessions are a great way to spend some time with some likeminded people who understand what you are going through. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to learn a new skill. You don’t need any experience and there’s always someone on hand to help you get started.”

As October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the group hopes their fundraising will inspire others to take action – whether by scheduling regular screenings, supporting local cancer services, or checking in on loved ones who may be affected. Their efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and community support in the fight against breast cancer.

About DBTH Charity:

Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals’ Charity is the official charity which supports Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Trust to go above and beyond by providing additional equipment, services and amenities for our patients, visitors and staff which cannot be funded by the NHS alone.

These additional extras would not be possible without the support of our community. With your help, we can continue to work with our Trust to fund innovative and exciting projects that make a difference to our patients, their families and our colleagues who care for them.

Visit the charity website to find out more: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/


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Rhys was born at just 26 weeks, weighing one pound and 10 ounces, nearly six pounds below the average birthweight for boys in England.

His mum, Vicky, described the fear and uncertainty she felt in those moments: “I knew nothing about premature birth let alone the complications, going into labour at 26 weeks was terrifying – particularly not knowing if my baby would survive.”

Vicky gave birth at Doncaster Royal Infirmary (DRI) before Rhys was transferred to Leeds General Hospital for the specialist care he urgently needed.

Rhys Gardner born at 26 weeks

He was soon back at DRI but developed Necrotising Entercolitis (NEC), a serious intestinal disease which mainly affects premature babies. Rhys was transferred again to the Jessop Wing at Sheffield Teaching Hospital to receive critical care treatment and emergency surgical intervention.

There, he had a third of his bowel removed and a stoma fitted, at which point, Vicky was told his chances of survival were low.

Against the odds, Rhys fought through and spent the first five months of his life in hospital. Following his discharge from hospital, Rhys was cared for by the Paediatric Team at DRI – one of the first of many healthcare teams at the Trust that Rhys would meet over the years.

Rhys and mum Vicky

Vicky said, “Rhys has been seen by consultants, dietitians, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, to name a few, who have all been absolutely fantastic supporting him.

“The medical professionals involved in Rhys’ care have provided continued support in advocating for Rhys to ensure he gets the right support in school and key in getting him on the SEN register and an Education, Health and Care Plan put in place.”

Now 13, Rhys is thriving, thanks to the continued support he receives at DRI.

Rhys with Ophthalmologist Consultant Mr Kostakis

Reflecting on her own experience and the advice she would give to parents facing a premature birth today, Vicky said, “The shock of a premature birth is traumatic for everyone in your support system. It ripples through the parents, family and friends.

“There are many services and groups out there now that can provide support – it’s so easy to feel isolated when you have a premature baby because your whole world becomes focused on your baby, and you forget to look after yourself. Remember to take time for yourself and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Specialists are very busy people, but they are also very caring.”

For more information on premature labour and birth, please visit https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth/premature-labour-and-birth/

Would you like to support the neonatal services at our hospitals? The ‘Mini Marvels’ appeal is a fundraiser by Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity to support families and carers with babies born too soon, or unwell ,at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Bassetlaw Hospital. Find out more, here: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/mini-marvels-appeal/.


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Held at Doncaster Knights Rugby Football Club, the event welcomed around 170 guests for an evening of delicious food, a raffle, an interactive quiz by Quiz UK, and live music from Yorkshire’s leading vocal harmony group, The Bowkers.

Andrew Tomlinson, Site Manager at GXO, and part of the winning quiz team, said of the night: “It was a great event which the team thoroughly enjoyed.

“We were happy to continue our partnership of working with DBTH to support the amazing work they do for our local children’s hospital. Nobody was more surprised than us that we won the quiz.”

The evening brought together hospital colleagues, local businesses, and members of the community to raise funds for the Children’s Ward and wider children’s services.

Teams from all departments were in attendance, including Library Services, Pharmacy and the Neonatal Unit, as well as businesses such as the local café, Brew Box and logistics company, GXO.

Thanks to the generosity of supporters over the years, Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) Charity has been able to fund a range of improvements on the Children’s Ward, including the Omivista interactive mobile projector, improvements to environments on the ward and funding to develop specialist roles such as the paediatric care nurse role.

Looking ahead, the Children’s Ward is currently fundraising to support several new projects.

One such project is improvements to parent rooms, bringing them up to date and offering a more homely experience with comfortable furnishings and serene decorations.

Ashleigh Elam, Sister on the Children’s Ward at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, said: “We are absolutely overwhelmed by the support we received at this year’s fundraising night.

“It was wonderful to see so many people come together to support our ward and help us make the hospital experience a little brighter for our young patients and their families.

“A huge thank you to everyone who attended, donated, and supported the event in any way – it truly makes a difference.”

The team would like to say a special thank you to Magical Sleepovers and Events, and EDM Ltd, for providing raffle prizes and bespoke lighting for the event.

If you would like to support the department and help fund these vital projects, visit www.dbthcharity.co.uk, or contact the charity team on email: dbth.charity@nhs.net or by phone: 01302 648282.

About DBTH Charity:

Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals’ Charity is the official charity which supports Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Trust to go above and beyond by providing additional equipment, services and amenities for our patients, visitors and staff which cannot be funded by the NHS alone.

These additional extras would not be possible without the support of our community. With your help, we can continue to work with our Trust to fund innovative and exciting projects that make a difference to our patients, their families and our colleagues who care for them.

Visit the charity website to find out more: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/


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The visits took place in mid-October as part of RRT’s nationwide campaign to recognise and thank emergency and urgent care teams for their service to local communities.

RRT is a volunteer-led charity made up of members of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church. The group provides practical and emotional support to emergency services, charities, and communities in need – from serving food and drinks during major incidents to helping those affected by natural disasters. Over the past few years, they’ve supported colleagues at DBTH through similar initiatives, offering refreshments and encouragement during particularly busy or challenging periods.

As part of their latest initiative, A&E Appreciation Week, RRT volunteers visited departments to share coffee, cake, and conversation. Over the course of the week, a number of colleagues took a brief moment to meet the volunteers, and take a well-earned break from their busy shifts. The event was warmly received by colleagues across the department, helping to lift spirits and shine a light on the compassion and resilience shown every day by those working in emergency care.

Reflecting on the event, Chris Ditch, Divisional General Manager for Urgent and Emergency Care, said: “We’re so grateful to the Rapid Relief Team for their kindness and generosity towards our colleagues.

“Working in such a fast-paced, high-pressure environment isn’t easy, but our teams always go above and beyond for our patients. Having that effort recognised in this way has been absolutely fantastic and provided a much-needed morale boost.”

Rod Paterson, Local Team Leader for RRT, echoed Chris’s sentiments: “The opportunity to thank the incredible teams in person has been a true honour for our volunteers. The compassion, strength, and professionalism they show every day, often under immense pressure, is nothing short of remarkable.

“A&E Appreciation Week is about showing that their hard work matters – that it’s seen, valued and celebrated. We believe this gratitude should be recognised every year across the country, which is why we’re calling for formal recognition of this week as a permanent fixture in the national calendar.”

It’s been a busy start to the colder months across DBTH, with teams seeing around 36,000 patients between September and early November – around 4% more than the same period last year.

Health professionals at the Trust are asking local communities to use services wisely this winter – only attending the Emergency Department when it’s appropriate to do so. If you’re unsure where to go, NHS 111 is available online and by phone for advice and guidance on the best service for your needs.


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Hosted by BBC Radio Yorkshire’s Dixie, the event brought together teams and individuals from across Bassetlaw Hospital, Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Montagu Hospital for an evening of celebration, recognising those who go above and beyond every day to deliver exceptional care, compassion, and commitment to patients and one another.

This year’s winners reflected the true breadth and depth of Team DBTH – colleagues from a wide range of services, both clinical and corporate. Together, they represent every part of the organisation, from those who directly deliver high-quality care to those who support and enable it. Each award celebrated the exceptional people whose dedication ensures our hospitals continue to provide safe, effective, and compassionate care.

Among the evening’s highlights, the Chair’s Award was presented to The Stroke Team, commended for their innovation and excellence, including the introduction of seven-day CT perfusion imaging, pioneering video triage with paramedics, and achieving some of the best times in the country for thrombectomy transfers.

Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of the Board, said the event was a fitting celebration of the talent and dedication across the organisation: “The Star Awards are always one of the highlights of our year, and this one was particularly special for me as my final ceremony as Chair. Every nomination and every story shared on the night reflects the dedication, compassion and teamwork that make DBTH such an extraordinary place.

“I am so proud of our colleagues and the difference they make for patients every single day.”

The evening’s winners included:

  •  Patient Champion:Richard Thompson
  •  Teaching Hospital Award:Jayan George
  •  Health Equality Champion:The Eye Screening Team
  •  Team Spirit Award:Victoria Tarry
  •  Unsung Hero:Anthony French
  •  Change Champion:Rapid Diagnostic Team for Lower and Upper GI
  •  Learner of the Year:Elizabeth Watkinson
  •  Fundraising Champion:The Community Midwifery Team
  •  Star of the Year:Michael Roys
  •  Sustainability Champion:The Green Theatre Team
  •  Non-Clinical Team of the Year:The Laundry Team
  •  Medical and Clinical Team of the Year:The Mexborough Elective Orthopaedic Centre Team
  •  Chair’s Award:The Stroke Team

Speaking at the event, Zoe Lintin, Chief People Officer at the Trust, said: “The Star Awards celebrate the people who make this organisation what it is. Every day, our colleagues live The DBTH Way – caring for others, supporting their teams, and always striving to make things better. It’s a chance to say thank you and recognise the heart and pride that shine through across our hospitals.”

The awards were delivered in association with ESC Global, a Doncaster-based water treatment company, who generously sponsored the event. Additional sponsorship was provided by Darwin Group, Fleet Solutions, Holt Doctors, Assut Europe, IHP Vinci and Doncaster College.

The event was made possible thanks to these generous contributions from partners and colleagues through the Trust’s internal staff lottery.


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Resident doctors (formerly known as junior doctors) make up around half the medical workforce in England, so significant disruption is expected. The strike action is due to take place from 7am on Friday 14 November 2025 until 7am on Wednesday 19 November 2025.

Anyone with an NHS appointment during the industrial action should attend unless they have been contacted to say it has been postponed.

Regardless of any strike action taking place, it is important that people who need urgent medical care continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases.

Find out more about other NHS services:

NHS 111:

There are a range of services available to help. Visit 111.nhs.uk or phone 111, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for advice, appointments or to get directed to the most appropriate service.

Pharmacy

Local pharmacies can help with less urgent conditions and may be able to offer treatment and some prescription medicine without you needing to see a GP (this is called Pharmacy First).

Conditions they can treat through Pharmacy First are:

  • Earache (aged 1 to 17 years)
  • Impetigo (aged 1 year and over)
  • Infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
  • Shingles (aged 18 years and over)
  • Sinusitis (aged 12 years and over)
  • Sore throat (aged 5 years and over)
  • Urinary tract infections or UTIs (women aged 16 to 64 years)

Some pharmacies open late (until midnight) and at weekends.

Self-care

Colleagues within NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamhire have also developed self-care information to help you manage common conditions such as minor burns and scalds, conjunctivitis, constipation and cystitis on our website: notts.icb.nhs.uk/your-health/stay-well/self-care/

Children’s health and wellbeing

Find advice for worried parents, covering common illnesses and when to seek treatment for you baby or child. This covers conditions such as chickenpox, asthma, earache, scarlet fever and many more. Visit: https://notts.icb.nhs.uk/your-services/childrens-health-and-wellbeing/

Mental health

If you need mental health support, or are in crisis, you can call 111 (option 2) to be directed to the right support. You can also find information on mental health services and support.

Nottinghamshire Crisis Sanctuaries can help you with support, information and guidance if you are over 18 years old and experiencing mental health issues or in a mental health crisis.

You can just drop in to one of the sanctuaries or visit https://www.nottinghamshirecrisissanctuaries.tv/ for more information.

  • Beeston: 318 High Road, NG9 1EJ: 6pm to 11pm Monday to Sunday
  • Mansfield: top of St John Street, NG18 1QJ: 4pm to 9pm Monday to Sunday
  • Worksop: Hardy Street, S80 1EH: 5pm to 10pm Wednesday and Sunday
  • Nottingham City: the Wellbeing Hub, 73 Hounds Gate, NG1 6BB: 6pm to 11pm Monday to Sunday

Details for support for mental health services in South Yorkshire can be viewed here: https://www.rdash.nhs.uk/services/adult-community-mental-health/

General practice

Contact your General Practice team about symptoms that aren’t going away. They can offer telephone, online, or face-to-face appointments with a GP, nurse or other healthcare professional depending on what your health concern is. Remember, your GP is open until 6.30pm and if you need help out of hours, please visit 111 online or phone 111.

Urgent treatment centres and minor injury units

For sprains, fractures, minor burns and skin infections:

Dental care

For urgent dental care you can call your local NHS dentist or contact NHS111.


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Liam, who lives in Retford, has a deeply personal connection to the cause. After taking part in a kidney research study conducted by the Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital’s Clinical Research team, he credits the team with saving his life. During the trial, clinicians spotted serious underlying issues that required urgent monitoring and treatment. Thanks to their swift intervention and ongoing support, the progression of Liam’s kidney condition has slowed dramatically, giving him renewed hope for the future.

Driven by gratitude for the care he received, Liam has committed to completing a 10-mile sponsored walk from Worksop to Retford along the Chesterfield Canal on 15 November 2025.

His challenge aims to raise money through DBTH Charity, to provide the research team with specialised heart equipment helping to detect heart defects or heart disease in patients with chronic illness and related conditions across Doncaster, Bassetlaw and the surrounding areas.

Speaking about his motivations, Liam said: “The team at the Clinical Research Hub have saved my life. Because of this, I want to give something back. This vital equipment could change – and even save – lives. Every step I take, and every pound you give, brings us closer to helping others receive the same support and outcomes that I’ve been fortunate to experience.”

Funds raised for DBTH Charity support investments that go above and beyond what the NHS can routinely provide, including enhanced medical equipment, improved patient environments and additional support for research teams whose groundbreaking work contributes to better outcomes for patients now and in the future.

Adrian Petts, Head of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity said: “We are incredibly grateful to Liam for his commitment and generosity. His experience highlights just how important clinical research is in transforming lives, and his fundraising will directly support improvements that will benefit many more patients in our care.”

To support Liam’s challenge and make a donation, visit his fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/liam-butterfield-3

About DBTH Charity:

Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals’ Charity is the official charity which supports Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Trust to go above and beyond by providing additional equipment, services and amenities for our patients, visitors and staff which cannot be funded by the NHS alone.

These additional extras would not be possible without the support of our community. With your help, we can continue to work with our Trust to fund innovative and exciting projects that make a difference to our patients, their families and our colleagues who care for them.

Visit the charity website to find out more: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/


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The book, which introduces neuroscience concepts using child-friendly language to help young readers understand feelings of worry and anxiety, was published on 5 October and is available to purchase on Amazon.

In its first week of publication, the title entered the Top 100 Best-Selling Children’s Science Books category on Amazon at number 63, rising to number 35 by week two. With royalties of approximately £6 per copy, Dr Edmondson-Jones’ donation pledge is expected to create a meaningful and sustained income stream for the hospital charity. She explained that she chose authorship over a one-off sponsored event to ensure ongoing support long into the future.

Alongside the donation of royalties, Dr Edmondson-Jones will gift £600 worth of her book to children on the wards at Doncaster Royal Infirmary (DRI) and Bassetlaw Hospital during two planned book-signing visits in November and December. Further signings open to the public are planned in Lincoln, York and Hull, with hopes that wider community engagement will boost sales and charitable contributions.

Dr Edmondson-Jones said: “I wanted to do something that could continue giving back to the Trust and its patients for many years to come. Writing and illustrating this book is a lovely way to educate children and support their wellbeing while also hopefully creating a steady income stream for the hospital charity. If my interactive books help children feel calmer and more confident, while also helping our hospitals, then that’s a wonderful outcome.”

Butterflies, Worms, Giggles and Tickles introduces children to the physical and emotional sensations associated with worry, using relatable terms such as “wriggly worms” and “fluttering butterflies.” The book teaches that these feelings are not just a natural response, but that it is ‘very clever brain science’, and importantly includes simple, evidence-based strategies grounded in neuroscience and mindfulness to help children take control and return to calm.

This publication is the first in a planned series of children’s neuroscience books. The second instalment, entitled The Cuddle Bear – A Bear’s Purpose, will explore confidence and self-esteem, and is expected in summer 2026.

As a mother, grandmother and clinical researcher with academic interests in neuroscience and positive psychology, Dr Edmondson-Jones hopes her work will become a useful resource for families, schools and health professionals.

Adrian Petts, Head of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity, said: “Our colleagues, their friends and families are some of our biggest supporters, as they see first-hand the wonderful care delivered by our dedicated teams. With charitable funds we can go above and beyond what is expected, providing enhanced patient experiences through improved facilities, environments and more. We are incredibly grateful for Kirsty’s generosity and creativity in supporting the work of the Charity.”

Butterflies, Worms, Giggles and Tickles is available to purchase now via Amazon.

About DBTH Charity:

Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals’ Charity is the official charity which supports Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Trust to go above and beyond by providing additional equipment, services and amenities for our patients, visitors and staff which cannot be funded by the NHS alone.

These additional extras would not be possible without the support of our community. With your help, we can continue to work with our Trust to fund innovative and exciting projects that make a difference to our patients, their families and our colleagues who care for them.

Visit the charity website to find out more: https://dbthcharity.co.uk/


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Fireworks, sparklers and bonfires can be great fun for families and friends, but they also carry risks. Every year, hospitals across the country treat people with burns, eye damage and other injuries that could have been avoided with a little extra care.

Dr Nick Mallaband, Acting Executive Medical Director at DBTH, said: “We want everyone who are celebrating the occasion to enjoy Bonfire Night – but please make sure you do so safely. Every year we see people who have suffered burns and other injuries that could easily have been prevented with a little extra care.

“If you do need medical attention for something minor, such as a small burn, our Minor Injuries Unit at Montagu Hospital in Mexborough can help. For more serious injuries, call 999 or go straight to your nearest Emergency Department.

“Please choose the right service for your needs – NHS 111 online or by phone can guide you to the best place for help. Above all, stay safe and don’t let a trip to hospital ruin your night.”

The Minor Injuries Unit at Montagu Hospital is open seven days a week from 9am to 9pm, with the last admission at 8pm. It is run by experienced health professionals and can help with a wide range of non-life-threatening problems such as sprains, strains, simple fractures, wound infections, minor burns and scalds, cuts, grazes, and minor eye injuries.

The service is based at Montagu Hospital, Adwick Road, Mexborough (S64 0AZ) and patients can walk in without an appointment.

To stay safe, always read and follow the instructions on fireworks and only buy those that are CE marked. Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby, never go back to a lit firework, and always supervise children with sparklers – once they’ve gone out, place them in water to cool.

If you’re lighting a bonfire, keep it well away from buildings, fences and trees. Never use petrol or other flammable liquids, and check that no animals are hiding in the woodpile before lighting it.

Dr Mallaband added: “Bonfire Night is meant to be fun. By taking a few simple precautions, everyone can enjoy the celebrations safely and help keep emergency services free for those who need them most.”


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