A student nurse who was inspired to take up the profession following volunteer work in Africa has been recognised with a special award.

Flora Allison, 23, from Farnham, recently completed her studies at the University of Chichester and will graduate in September.

She received the Student Nurse Academic Achievement Award from Dr Nita Muir, Head of Nursing and Allied Health at the university and Rod Gilchrist who co-sponsored the award in memory of his mother Mary Gilchrist.

Mary was a pioneering nurse during the mid-20th century, serving as a theatre sister in London hospitals during the darkest days of the Second World War. She later trained as a midwife and psychiatric nurse, helping children with disabilities and their parents among the poor of East London for which she won many awards.

“I’ve always known from a very young age that I wanted to help people and make a difference,” Flora said.

“When I was 17 I went to Ghana and worked in medical clinics in rural areas for three weeks, which we organised ourselves with the help of Farnham College. It was a completely different world where I was looking after very young children with malaria.

“From that moment on I knew I wanted to be a nurse. It was a great experience. I cried when I heard about winning this award. I worked so hard and it’s great to be recognised for that. I’m honoured!”

After graduation, Flora will begin working in community nursing in the Farnham area. Community nursing is her passion because of the close connections she can build with her patients.

Dr Muir commented: “This award recognises Flora’s hard work and outstanding academic achievement throughout the three years of her degree studies. She will make an excellent nurse and will be an asset to the community.”