A nurse has been commended for trudging 18 miles through heavy snow twice to save the life of a patient needing kidney dialysis.

Debbie Noble, 49, lived up to her name by making the arduous round trip in February while many workers stayed home during the heaviest snowfall in 18 years.

The renal nurse at Epsom and St Helier NHS trust walked from her home in Ewell to Ashtead for two days in a row to treat Steph Crawford, 45.

Her dedication has now been recognised with an outstanding achievement award from Sir Richard Sykes, chairman of London NHS.

Debbie said: “I am delighted but astounded to have won this award. The fact is that in the healthcare profession, people go beyond the call of duty quite regularly.

"I was just doing my job, and I’m sure that many people in my position would have done the same.”

Mrs Crawford, who would usually drive to a dialysis centre in Kingston, called the nurse in desperation when ambulances were unable to reach her road.

Without the emergency treatment, she would have become breathless as fluid amasses around her lungs, which can be fatal.

At the time she said: “The fact is, without dialysis, I would have died.

"I know it sounds dramatic, but it’s true. I know that I need dialysis at least three times a week, so I would have been in real trouble.”

Sir Richard handed out the award at a glitzy ceremony, hosted by BBC London presenter Robert Elms, at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts headquarters.

He said: “I have been so impressed by the dedication and commitment of those nominated for the award.

"Debbie really went the extra mile for her patient and she deserves to be truly commended.”

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