NOT all heroes wear capes, there are some who carry a stethoscope, greet you with a cheery smile and care for you when you are unwell.

Now a Surrey hospital wants to know about their stars and unsung heroes.

Each year, Royal Surrey County Hospitals gives patients, visitors and carers the opportunity to recognise and say thank you to a staff member or team who has gone above and beyond.

All staff across the hospital are eligible for the Patient’s Choice awards, which has become the most sought after prize at its annual staff awards ceremony.

RSCH trust chairman Sue Sjuve said: “The NHS is facing increasing challenges and we know our dedicated staff are dealing with this pressure 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Each year we hold our annual staff awards ceremony to recognise the outstanding contribution that is made by both individuals and teams at the trust, as well as recognising healthcare excellence.

“The Patient’s Choice award is your chance to thank individual staff members or teams who have made a real difference to your life or that of a loved one.”

The finalists will be invited to attend the awards ceremony in November.

There are two ways to nominate:

1) Via www.royalsurrey. nhs.uk and complete the online nomination and click submit.

2) Pick up a nominations form from reception or request a form from a member of staff.

Complete the form using the guidelines and post/deliver it to: The Communications Office, Level A, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Egerton Road, Guildford Surrey, GU2 7XX.

The deadline for nominations is 5pm on October 6.