NOT all heroes wear capes, there are some that have stethoscopes and others with a cheery smile.

As a thank you to those doctors, nurses and hospital staff that go above and beyond, patients are being encouraged to give something back to them by nominating them for a hospital award.

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) has now opened nominations for its Patients' Choice Award.

Staff across the John Radcliffe, Churchill, Horton General and Nuffield Orthopaedic Hospitals are all eligible for an award for delivering outstanding care to patients.

The trust's chief executive Bruno Holthof said: "We launched the Patients’ Choice Award last year and were delighted to receive so many remarkable and touching stories about how our staff have gone above and beyond what is expected of them to deliver exceptional care.

"It was confirmation, if it were needed, of the outstanding compassion, courage and dedication shown by OUH staff.

"What makes this award so special is it is the people we serve – the patients and their families – who are having their say.

"If a doctor, nurse, support worker or ward team have gone the extra mile in treating you or a loved one, or if they have given you outstanding care, this is your chance to make sure it doesn't go unnoticed."

Last year the inaugural 'gold' Patient Choice Award was given to Kathy Lurcook, Georgie Stepney and Elizabeth Orchard, three children's cardiac nurse specialists and cardiologists.

They were nominated by a mum whose son was born with a congenital heart condition and were praised for their 'exceptional compassionate care.'

In the 'silver' category were joint winners Professor Stephen Westaby and Dr Oliver Ormerod in the cardiology division at the John Radcliffe.

The pair were nominated for the first open-heart surgery on a pregnant woman in the country.

Therapy radiographer Carol Thurgood was awarded the 'bronze' category last year for her kindness and compassion to a patient undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer.

Mr Holthof added: "This really is a great chance for patients to highlight members of staff who have delivered exceptional care."

The winners, chosen by an independent panel of patients, will be presented with their award at the trust’s annual Staff Recognition Awards event at Oxford Town Hall on December 6.

For more information or to nominate a member of staff visit: http://bit.ly/2pN592G