A RETIRED surgeon has received an MBE for years of selfless and devoted fundraising work for Kidderminster Hospital.

The award was presented to Dr Pamela Ball, aged 92, at a town hall ceremony this morning (Monday, August 5), commemorating her charitable fundraising in the NHS.

Pamela first moved to Britain from the West Indies after the Second World War and attended medical school in Durham, later moving to Bewdley in the 1950s.

She began work at the old Kidderminster Hospital in Mill Street in 1954, later transferring to Bewdley Road where she worked as an NHS plastic surgeon.

After retiring in 1997, Pamela joined the hospital's League of Friends charity, where she has helped to raise money towards new equipment including a walk-in X-ray machine, a high-tech ageing simulation suit and upgraded facilities at the Millbrook Suite.

She is still involved in work at Kidderminster Hospital as president of the League of Friends.

Before she received the award, a statement was read which said Pamela has "had a huge impact on the lives of others."

Vice Lord-Lieutenant Lady Morrison presented Pamela with her MBE.

Addressing the hall, Pamela said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my many years in Kidderminster, it has all been lovely and I feel most fortunate that I have been able to do what I have done because of the support I have had from family, friends and staff.

"They have been wonderful and I would like to thank them for their efforts."

Kidderminster Shuttle: Dr Pamela Ball and Vice Lord-Lieutenant Lady Morrison PIC: Clive Joyce Dr Pamela Ball and Vice Lord-Lieutenant Lady Morrison PIC: Clive Joyce

Pamela added: "It's a great day. I have been so lucky to have a job I have loved. It's very rewarding.

"This was an enormous surprise to me.

"It's lovely to be here and to see all these people who have done so much for me through the years and who enabled me to get this honour.

"It's for all of them as well."

Pamela was also a prominent Save Kidderminster Hospital campaigner during the fight against the downgrading of services.

A mother-of-three, Pamela also has five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Her late husband John Ball was also a well-respected Kidderminster doctor.

Vincent Smith, aged 80, who previously worked for the ambulance service, said: "She worked so hard. She used to give us lectures on how to carry out care work.

"She's saved so many lives."

Former Wyre Forest MP, Dr Richard Taylor said: "It's very very highly deserved for her work, not only on the League of Friends, but as a doctor, plastic surgeon, pathologist, and horticulturalist.

"The amount of money her plants raised for the League of Friends was enormous."

Pamela also said The League of Friends are looking for more volunteers.

People interested in supporting the group can email info.khlof@btconnect.com or call 01562 67653.