A BARNSLEY Hospital worker has picked up her paintbrush to honour the hardworking NHS staff across the borough.
Angie Brookes, of The Pastures in Royston, is a healthcare assistant at Barnsley Hospital and has worked throughout the pandemic to care for others.
During her days off, the 55-year-old has paid tribute to the ‘heroes’ she works with by dedicating her latest painting on local frontline staff.
The art was inspired by Angie’s colleagues Hannah Watson, Becky Noble and Katie Redford.
The painting has since been shared on Barnsley Hospital’s Facebook page where it has received hundreds of positive responses.
Angie believes that her art pieces are her way of showing her gratitude and expressing herself.
“I’ve always been an avid painter,” she said. “I’ve been painting for as long as I can remember. I absolutely love it.
“I attended Barnsley Art College when I was young and picked up a lot of skills there which I still use now.
“Once I had children, I put down my paintbrush for a while, but have recently picked it up again and realised how much I missed it.
“It has been tough for NHS workers throughout the pandemic and I’ve seen firsthand the sacrifices made by my friends and colleagues across the hospital.
“That’s what inspired me to start this painting, it was a joy to do.”
Angie has thanked people across social media for their encouragement after being inundated with messages.
“The reaction has been wonderful. It has been a real booster for me and my artwork.
“In my department, we’re having a refurbishment and the painting will be put on the wall at the hospital.
“It’s very emotional that something that means a lot to me has been seen by so many people.
“I want to thank everyone that has been touched by my work, I look forward to doing more pieces in the future.”
