Airedale has been judged as one of the 40 top-performing hospitals in the country.

It has achieved the accolade in the annual CHKS Top Hospitals programme, which celebrates excellence in the NHS.

Awards are based on an evaluation of 22 key performance indicators covering safety, clinical effectiveness, health outcomes, efficiency, patient experience and quality of care.

Airedale NHS Foundation Trust telemedicine manager Marie Buchan and Rachel Binks, nurse consultant in the intensive care unit, were among over 200 people who attended a presentation ceremony in London.

Bridget Fletcher, Airedale Hospital’s chief executive, said: “I am delighted we have been recognised by an independent body as one of the top hospitals in the country, based on results achieved by our hardworking staff.

“This is the fourth time we have achieved top awards which is a great track record.”

Jason Harris, managing director of CHKS, said he was delighted Airedale was in the top 40 in a “special year” for the awards.

“This year we celebrate our 25th anniversary so it is a fitting occasion to reward excellence in the NHS,” he added.

“The awards recognise outstanding performance in those areas which we believe are critical to delivering good patient care.”