STAFF from across Salisbury District Hospital bid farewell to Peter Wells who has retired as decontamination and sterile services manager after 31 years of service to the NHS in Salisbury.

Decontamination and sterile services ensure that medical devices and surgical instruments are cleaned, disinfected or sterilised in line with national standards.

Under Mr Wells’ leadership, the unit was one of the first in the country to be fully accredited against the required international standards and he was also a key figure in the specialist national institute for sterile services.

Chief executive Peter Hill said: "Peter’s work brought him into contact with staff from all parts of the hospital and he was a highly respected and well liked member of our team here in Salisbury.

“He was instrumental in expanding and developing the sterile services unit during his time here and his knowledge, experience and understanding of the needs of the hospital and our staff in this area are second to none.

“I know so many people would want to join me in thanking Peter for his significant contribution to local health services over so many years and wish him well for a long and happy retirement."