SHE is a highly-respected healthcare professional with a "real passion" for helping her patients.

Now senior healthcare assistant Jane Rutley has received a long service award after working at a Hampshire mental health hospital for 25 years.

Jane supports patients who are admitted to the Priory Hospital Southampton with eating disorders.

She said: “My colleagues have been a huge part of why I remain here, plus the support I have been given to gain qualifications.”

Former known as Marchwood Priory Hospital the 40-bed facility has treated a huge number of NHS and private patients including celebrities such as footballer Paul Gascoigne and entertainer Michael Barrymore.

Jane, who works in Skylark Ward, said she was proud to have completed a Diploma for Practitioner Skills in Eating Disorders.

Ward manager Paul Walbridge said: “Jane has a real passion for working with patients with an eating disorder that is as strong now as when I first met her in 2001.

"She has provided education for families, and is highly respected by the team on the ward and most importantly the patients.”

The hospital treats people with a range of conditions including anxiety, stress and depression as well as eating disorders.

The hospital recently received an overall rating of "good" from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which regulates the care industry. It was also judged to be "outstanding" in its ability to deliver a caring service.

Managed by Priory Healthcare, part of the Priory Group, the hospital is located beside the A326 in Marchwood.

Hospital director Kate Brooker said: “Jane has given so much to the hospital and to the patients she supports over the years. I want to take this opportunity to thank her for everything she has done.”

Warren Irving, chief operating officer at Priory Healthcare, also paid tribute.

He said: “I am really proud that we have long-serving colleagues like Jane at Priory Healthcare. She has given so much time, commitment and energy to the people she supports. I wish her all the best going forwards.”