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The National Health Service in Wales has been awarded the George Cross for its efforts during the coronavirus pandemic.

The award was issued on July 5 – the 73rd anniversary of the creation of the NHS.

The NHS in each of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland also received the honour, which recognises extraordinary acts of bravery in trying to save the lives of others

Darren Hughes, director of the Welsh NHS Confederation, said receiving the recognition was “an honour for the NHS and its staff, past and present”.

He added: “As we all know, coronavirus has tested the NHS and its staff, pushing them to their limits and asking so much during the most difficult of times. We cannot thank them enough for all their hard work.”

Wales’ Health Minister Eluned Morgan said: “This award is not just to recognise those who work in the service today, but those who have worked in this loved institution over all the years since it was established.

“It is hard to put into words how grateful we are to the NHS in Wales for everything they have done throughout the pandemic, going above and beyond the call of duty to treat, care and support us.

“This award is just a small token of our appreciation for the heroic service they have given and how indebted we are to their work.”

Andrew Goodall, chief executive of NHS Wales, said: “NHS workers across Wales have shown strength, passion, professionalism and dedication throughout one of the biggest challenges of our lifetime.

“They have been there for us and for our loved ones when nobody else could be there, and have shouldered enormous physical and emotional demands.

“Throughout the recent dark times we have shown our appreciation for their work through doorstep clapping and rainbows in windows, and I hope the legacy of the pandemic will be to treasure the NHS and its staff just that bit more in future.

“While the award today is a fitting tribute to NHS staff, I know that those working in the NHS would like to join me in also recognising the contribution of all those working in partnership with the NHS.

“This includes colleagues in social care, keyworkers and volunteers who have stepped in when needed and not least the public who have made many sacrifices along the way. The response has been a truly collective one.”

“Pandemic is not over yet”

While the NHS has been rightly commended for its efforts during the pandemic, both Mr Hughes and the Health Minister have called for caution over the spread of the Delta variant of coronavirus.

Health Minister Mrs Morgan said: “We know the pandemic is not over yet and we still have many challenges to come, but if we have learnt anything over the last 18 months, it is the strength of character, resolve and determination of our NHS is unquestionable and we are incredibly lucky to have such a health service.”

Mr Hughes said: “Whilst the Delta variant spreads freely through our communities, following the safety measures in place remains as important as ever. This means regularly washing your hands, wearing a face mask indoors, keeping rooms well ventilated, working from home where possible and social distancing.

“For those who have not yet been vaccinated, it’s not too late, and for those who’ve received a first dose of the Covid vaccine, please take up the offer of a second dose when you receive it to complete the two-dose course.”