A CONSULTANT surgeon at the Great Western Hospital in Swindon with a dedication for training and nurturing junior colleagues has been applauded at a national level by one of the country’s most well respected professional bodies.

David Woods was named 'trainer of the year' earlier this month in front of a packed room of experts at the British Orthopaedic Association’s national congress in Belfast.

The award was presented to David by Tim Wilton for his exemplary commitment to providing junior colleagues with a consistently high standard of on-the-job training.

“I am absolutely thrilled to win this award," said David.

"At a time when morale among junior doctors may be low, my role is to try to enthuse and train the next generation of surgeons.

“To find that so many trainees have appreciated my efforts and have actively voted for me is extremely rewarding.

“I hope my work helps to keep the Great Western Hospital at the top of students’ list of where to go for excellent training, as this will ensure a better future for all.”

Orthopaedic surgery is used to treat injuries and conditions that affect the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves, also known as the musculoskeletal system.

Over the years, David has become known among medical students at the hospital for his tailored and individualised approach to training.

As part of the nomination process, David’s peers and students gave examples of how his day-to-day work earns him the title of trainer of the year.

One colleague said: “David has inspired, encouraged and motivated our trainees for more than 12 years and has been nominated as trainer of the year for the last five years, which is a testament to his tireless dedication to training.

“As well as his teaching, he has raised the profile of the unit at the Great Western Hospital, so that it is now one of the most sought-after training departments in the South West.”

David holds a weekly theatre meeting with students to discuss the details of every patient having surgery that week, as well as holding journal clubs for students at his home and staying late to help with research projects.

For more information, visit the British Orthopaedic Association's website, www.boa.ac.uk.