Sita Lumsden and Gordon Hopkins wards were presented with the coveted employee of the year prize at this year’s Southend Hospital Heroes awards.

As part of collecting that accolade, representatives of the wards got to turn on the Christmas tree lights at the front of the hospital.

They pressed the plunger surrounded by a crowd of staff, governors, the aroma of non-alcoholic Christmas punch and the tuneful sounds of children of Saint Pierre School choir from Leigh.

The switch on is part of a packed calendar of Christmas activities across the hospital including players from Southend United Football Club visiting Neptune Children’s Ward and PAT Dogs delivering joy to patients. Wards and non-clinical areas are also being given a festive makeover with decorations and trees.

Anishi Emmi, ward manager for both of the winning areas, said: “Everyone on the wards has been excited about the switch on and it’s great to be recognised and has been a real privilege to turn the Christmas tree lights on this year.

“It’s been nice to represent everyone off the wards and has made us all feel like mini-celebrities, it has given everyone an extra spring in their steps.”

Managing director Yvonne Blücher said a few words during Friday’s light switch on by the tree, which was supplied for free by Davis Construction.

She said: “I’d like to thank all the volunteers and staff who are here in attendance, the children of Saint Pierre School choir for providing the musical accompaniment.

“I also want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”