MATRONS have made a big comeback in the NHS and their new roles have been celebrated in a week of events at Basingstoke hospital.

Modern Matrons' Week began last Monday when the hospital's 15 matrons raised the profile of their jobs within the different divisions.

Helen Rush, head of nursing for the emergency division, said: "The trust has now established a clear and defined role for matrons and this week has been an opportunity to raise awareness of that.

"We have been focusing on different aspects of the matron's role each day. This will enable staff to gain a better understanding of one another's jobs."

On Tuesday, the modern matrons spent the day educating visitors in the importance of handwashing and on Wednesday the focus was on pressure-area care.

On Friday, the matrons focused on nutrition, providing patients with information to ensure they eat well and gain a better understanding of the importance of a balanced diet.

The whole hospital was also involved in a "Learning at Work Day", when staff had the opportunity to shadow someone else in their day-to-day work.

Donna Green, the hospital's director of nursing and operations, said: "Basingstoke matrons are an asset to the trust and are leading the way to ensure that our patients' environment is clean and safe."