THE Duke of Cambridge has thanked NHS Borders staff for their hard work during the coronavirus pandemic.

The health board says Prince William phoned duty manager Jane Kennedy on Thursday (February 11).

A spokesperson for NHS Borders said: "This was part of a series of calls that the Duke is making to NHS boards around the UK, to offer his thanks and support for all we are doing at this difficult time.

"After comparing notes on the depth of snow in the Borders and Norfolk where the Duke was calling from, Jane went on to talk about some of the challenges that we have faced since the beginning of the pandemic.

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"She described the fact that none of us knew what to expect, and that this continues to be different to anything we have ever experienced and worked through before.

"She reflected on the good and bad times over the past year, and highlighted the fact that, throughout the pandemic, the focus has been on keeping going, looking out for each other and remembering that we will get through this.

"Jane was really keen to talk about the amazing team work that has taken place, and how everyone, whatever their role, clinical or non clinical, has pulled together and stepped up to do whatever it takes to keep our patients safe.

"The Duke asked Jane to pass on his sincere thanks to everyone across NHS Borders for the hard work and sacrifices that staff are continuing to make."